When most people think of gentleness, they often associate it with being soft, weak, and wimpy. However, this is an incorrect view of gentleness—which, by the way, is a fruit of the Spirit.
Paul instructed, “Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:5). The Greek word for gentleness was once translated as “meek,” but modern translations use “gentle.” Both terms derive from the same Greek word meaning “strength under control.”
This concept carries the image of a wild stallion that has been tamed. The stallion is just as strong as a wild one, but it can harness its strength. One is in control; the other is out of control. When Paul wrote, “Let your gentleness be known to all,” he was essentially saying, “Let your controlled strength be known to all.”
Here are three ways we can exhibit strength under control.
Gentleness Diffuses Conflict. A person who is gentle diffuses conflict. Proverbs 15:1 (MSG) says, “A gentle response defuses anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” In a heated moment, anyone can retaliate; but it takes “strength under control” to respond kindly. When you respond gently, you rise above the situation while simultaneously defusing it.
Gentleness Disarms Critics. Paul wrote, “We appeal gently when evil things are said about us” (1 Corinthians 4:13 NLT). How people treat you is often a reflection of themselves. If someone is going off at you, something is going on in them. When you respond gently, you show that you understand there’s a deeper problem. By showing gentleness, you give them nothing else to accuse you of. You disarm them.
“And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way… Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ” (1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT).
Gentleness Destroys Defenses. People often have walls up due to past hurts and find it hard to trust others. When you’re gentle, you earn their trust, and their walls come down. Remember to see people for who they are consistently, not just momentarily.
“Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses” (Proverbs 25:15 MSG).
Remember, gentleness is strength under control. Show this strength by:
- Diffusing Conflict
- Disarming Critics
- Destroying Defenses
By embracing and demonstrating gentleness, we reflect Christ’s strength and love, cultivating peace and understanding in our interactions.
Keep the fire burning!!!
