Tag: Fruit of the Spirit

Gentleness

When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives, the Fruit of the Spirit will show as a result.  Gentleness is not meekness.  It is more than being tender; it involves having a humble heart and being kind towards others (Ephesians 4:32). 

The Greek word in Galatians 5:23 for gentleness is Prautes, which means to submit one’s strength in a posture of meekness. Gentleness is defined as kindness, consideration, a spirit of fairness and compassion.  We will be gentle with others once we submit ourselves to God.

Gentleness is not a lack of convictions or weakness.  It isn’t about being double minded, indecisive, or wimpy.  It’s refusing to use power to hurt others.  Rather, it means we value the soul of the person we share God’s truths with and treat them as a person fashioned in the image of God.

Jesus gave a great example of gentleness just prior to His death.  In Luke 22:50-52, we see that while Jesus was praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, a great multitude came to betray and arrest Him.  In attempts to defend Jesus, Peter drew his sword struck off the ear of the servant of the high priest.  Our Lord’s reaction was not to pat Peter on the back for a job well done, nor scold Peter for only getting his ear.  Rather, Jesus touched the servant’s ear and healed him.  This was a great act of gentleness and consideration.

When the gentleness of Christ flows through us, we will want what’s best for others.