So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; Colossians 3:12 NASB
When was the last time you went to bed and thought, “When I wake up in the morning, I will put on gentleness“? If you’re like me, probably never.
Number eight in the list of the fruit of the Spirit is gentleness found in Galatians 5:23; This attribute of the Spirit’s fruit is defined as the art of being gentle. Gentle itself means: 1) having or showing a kind and quiet nature, 2) not harsh or violent, 3) not hard or forceful, 4) not strong or harsh in effect or quality.
As you read those definitions, the first one could describe a person made by our Creator. Numbers two and three could describe a person’s actions or reactions. The fourth could possibly describe a chemical in a dish or laundry detergent. For example, Dove dish detergent claims it’s gentle on the hands.
HARSH AND GENTLE ARE POLAR OPPOSITES
Let’s examine ourselves to see if we exhibit the quality of gentleness. Have you been harsh or abrasive to anyone in the past day, week, or month? Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” The same passage goes on to say, “But a harsh word stirs up anger.”
If we put on a sweater that is scratchy, our skin becomes irritated. Most of the time it’s wool that’s the culprit. We get all itchy and red in the places the material touches. It does not matter how pretty the garment is, if it makes the wearer uncomfortable she will probably not keep it on her body. She will probably give it away or throw it out.
My mom used to say, “Pretty is, is pretty does.” If the decibel level in your voice goes up significantly and your face is all “scowly“, the people standing nearby are probably going to be repelled. It may get their attention, but not in a good sort of way. You can convey what you need to say ten times more effectively if you say it with gentleness. Unless they are hard of hearing or unless they are about to be in serious danger, you don’t need to yell. You may say, “He or she made me yell.” No they didn’t. Yelling is a choice.
YELLING SHOULD BE RESERVED FOR SPORTING EVENTS.
Meekness or gentleness is not weakness. Wayne Gruden says, “Meekness does not use its power for its own defense or selfish purposes. Meekness is power completely surrendered to God’s control.”
Colossians 3:12 tells us to “Put on Gentleness”. We can choose to put on gentleness as an act of obedience to our Lord. If we wear it well, we will be known by our fruit. The people in your sphere of influence, your family, your friends, your co-workers will know if you exhibit this Christ like attribute. They will be drawn to the Christ in you, the hope of glory.
GO AHEAD. PUT IT ON. GENTLENESS LOOKS GOOD ON YOU!
Prayer:
Lord, may I put on a spirit of gentleness before those with whom I work and live on a daily basis. I love You Lord and thank You for Your gentleness with me. In Jesus Name. Amen
