What is gentleness? The dictionary gives the obvious definition: kind; not violent; mild. And this certainly relates to gentleness. But as Christians, there is so much more to gentleness. Because we know God. We know Christ. And we know the true manifestation of gentleness. Not only must we avoid violence and rough behaviour, but we are to treat others with utmost respect.
There isn’t just a negative aspect to the fruits of the Spirit- showing love doesn’t just mean avoiding hate; being peaceful doesn’t just mean avoiding conflict; and in the same way, being gentle doesn’t just mean avoiding the ugly, unkind stuff. Being gentle is an active trait. Jerry Bridges defines gentleness in this way: “It is the recognition that the human personality is valuable but fragile and must be handled with care... (it) will demonstrate respect for the personal dignity of the other person... It takes strength, God’s strength to be truly gentle”.
God’s revelation of Himself is amazing. And His wonderful character includes gentleness. As Christ say, “Come to Me all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt 11:28-29). We have the promise of rest. And we also have the promise of guidance. “He (God) found him (His people) in a desert land... He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept Him as the apple of His eye” (Deut 32:10).
What will we do with this? “Let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible (unfading) beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious to the sight of God” (1 Pet 3:4). We are precious to Him, for we are the apple of God’s eye- what a beautiful promise! But God’s promises also come with obligations. As God says, “Keep My commands and live, and my law as the apple of your eye” (Prov 7:2). So we must be gentle. We must clothe ourselves in gentleness. We must show that we love. Show that we care. Show our respect. We must avoid being quick to condemn but instead be open and understanding, willing to help, encouraging, sensitive and considerate. We must remember to acknowledge people as people, as God’s image, and as the apple of His eye.
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