Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. (Titus 3:1-2 ESV).
Over the last few days, I’ve been using the fruits of the Spirit to base the devotional on. Today I am focusing on gentleness. It is a trait that is the least-talked about in our culture. Even though it is often overlooked, it is one of the most important character traits of people who live by the Spirit. It is also one of the most powerful. Unfortunately, the Bible often uses the word “meekness” to describe this characteristic. In our modern use of the word “meek”, or “meekness”, we tend to associate that with weakness. Nothing could be further from the true meaning of this word.
Our world today does not value gentleness. Instead, we are loud, boisterous, rowdy, showy, obnoxious, and pushy. In fact, the common position is one of bullying. We tend to value that trait as one that wins. This has resulted in one description of our culture in North America as “restless, rootless, and ruthless.” Gentleness is the opposite of these. Gentle folks are not restless but calm and composed, not rootless but stable, not ruthless but respectful. Biblical synonyms for the word gentle include humble, meek, considerate, courteous, respectful, and noble. These are strengths to be desired and practiced.
Gentleness is actually the result of bringing great strength under control. In a biblical sense, the strongest people are those who dare to be gentle. And the best example to guide us is Jesus. Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). To be gentle or meek is to be God-molded, Christ-shaped, and Holy Spirit-directed. Ask the Spirit for an extra measure of gentleness today.