Hello again, Dear Sister in Christ,
Whenever I read passages in Scripture that contain the word, gentle, I smile. Just listen to Paul: …walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.
I perceive “gentleness” as a friendly word, one that connotes lambs and clouds and breezes. I have always admired the gentleness of someone who is, by nature, soft-spoken. Every word from that person produces calm, affects the very atmosphere with tenderness. When given a choice—I prefer to be in the company of gentle people.
Gentleness seems to have lost favor with our culture. In the world of business, competition is aggressive. In the world of school, children are expected to express themselves, no matter how it hurts another. The worldview, according to television, presents family models that batter each other with insult and ridicule. And, I remember well, how a presidential candidate was verbally pummeled because he called for a gentler, kinder America.
But, Sister, as much as it is possible, let’s not allow a harsh world to dictate to us what deportment we should bear. We who are Children of the Most High God should always continue to represent Christ, who served as a paragon of spiritual strength when He was in the midst of Pharisees, soldiers and the enemy, being mocked, spat upon and tempted.
He did not stand back, either, to be a door mat for anyone, but presented His reply from the Scriptures. What an encouragement to memorize the Word of God, lock it up in our heart and be prepared to respond in and out of season! Let’s fill up our treasury with Scripture to be used, not abused. Let us know the Scriptures so that we may respond with gentleness, in all situations, even those that might be disturbing. Who knows if someone who is listening has been prepared by God for the salvation message?
Gentleness may be unpopular to the world that does not believe in Jesus as the only Savior, but let it not be so with you and me, dear sister! I am so glad that you and I have Jesus. He is gentle and lowly in heart, and He gives us rest for our souls— everywhere, everyday, eternally.
Love in our Gentle Jesus,
Mimi