Last week we considered God’s gentle leading, the gentleness of the Spirit. It made me consider what gentleness should look like in me as I grow to become more like Him.
What is gentleness?
Some say it is strength under control or restrained power. Think of carrying something precious but heavy. If you are weak, you may manhandle it by necessity just to get it to its destination. If you are strong, you can maneuver it in a protective and smooth way. When we think about the truly gentle people in our lives, they are not timid and weak, but typically have a quiet but unyielding strength.
Gentleness is sometimes translated interchangeably with goodness. Being able to interact from a strong foundation means not needing to manipulate or pressure. It means being able to act in the best interest of others by being able to restrain our own desire and set aside our own privileges.
How is God gentle?
God is all-powerful, yet He exerts only what is necessary for His will. He protects me as precious and valuable and I am safe in His strong hands. Despite His infinite Might, He leads sacrificially with love and example rather than force.
You are my God. Show me what you want me to do, and let your gentle Spirit lead me in the right path. Psalm 143:10
Your gentleness has made me great. Psalm 18:35
He will tend His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. Isaiah 40:11
Gentleness in me
If I am to be gentle, I must recognize and draw on the strength given by the Holy Spirit. It is He who makes me strong even in my weakness. And from this strength I can interact with others without needing to force a result. I am able to choose to set aside any power or need of my own and submit to His power and will. True gentleness is a manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit, His work in me. I can trust in Him.
Lord, create a gentleness in my soul that manifests towards those around me.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2
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