What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word gentleness? For me, its a baby. Gentleness is definately required for all aspects of their care. They seem so fragile. The definition of gentleness reflects that; gentleness includes true humility that doesn't consider itself too good or too exalted for humble tasks. Think of all the humility and gentleness in caring for a baby. You don't fuss at the little angel in the middle of the night when she's wet and needs changing or when its feeding time. You are gentle, even though that can be considered a task.
We do seem to be so gentle with children, as we should be. However, teenagers, adults, spouses, co-workers, other drivers... what then? What makes gentleness different with this group? I think its our expectations of them and our high opinion of ourselves. Remember yesterdays blog? Humility vs.pride? We think people should do better, know better, treat us better, and when they don't , we start with the critical , judgmental attitudes and allow harshness to set it.
Gentleness is a command. Its #8 in the list of fruit of the Spirit. In Ephesians 4.2 , Paul urges us to live a life worthy of our calling and to be completely humble and gentle. How do we do it? How do we acquire gentleness? We choose. God doesn't command us to do anything that is impossibe. You may need to devote some prayer to this issue and ask God to help you. But simply stated, I believe its a "flesh" thing and can be conquered but you have to face the reality of it, confess and repent of a hard attitude and harshness in your life. The Holy Spirit will convict you gently when you do not show gentleness.
All this boils down to what we already know, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
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