Xanthe Galanis
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
1 Peter 3:15
Coco Chanel is quoted as saying that “gentleness doesn't get work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs.” In a world that celebrates power and strength, it’s easy to think of gentleness as a weakness, something we’d be better off without. It even seems a little strange that Peter would choose the word gentleness to describe our witness to others. He could have used words like boldness, truthfulness, integrity, or wisdom. But gentleness?
Coco Chanel might have been an authority on style, but she was wrong about gentleness. Gentleness doesn’t mean being weak or fearful, and it certainly doesn’t mean you will never achieve anything. The gentleness that comes from the Holy Spirit is about the way we treat others. Far from being a weakness, gentleness is power and strength under control that allows us to be patient and tolerant of others. To be gentle is to be even-tempered and balanced in spirit. A gentle person is not critical or judgmental, but forgives and brings peace.
It’s this kind of attitude that Peter says we are to have when we discuss our faith with others. We aren’t good ambassadors for Christ if we’re argumentative and belittle others’ views. Gentleness doesn’t mean never disagreeing or not standing up for what we believe in, it means being reasonable and even-tempered in our disagreements, gently showing others where we differ. Our arguments don’t change people, Jesus changes people. You can live with passion and fire and still be gentle, achieving great things for God.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, you are our example of gentleness. By your mighty Spirit in me, help me to be more gentle today, and let your gentleness in my life be evident to all. Amen