stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 4:6)

Have you ever encountered a rude person? They are usually harsh, ill-mannered, and impolite. Considerate, compassionate, and courteous are not words you would use to describe them. They are not gentle and kind. I encountered someone like this last week. In our brief encounter in the restaurant, he was short-tempered, insensitive, offensive, angry, and somewhat hostile. Why? I accidentally stepped in front of him while trying to fill my drink. When he scolded me, I apologized, backed up, and invited him to go ahead of me. I could have escalated the altercation by echoing his demeanor, but I chose to be gentle instead.

The opposite of gentleness is harshness. Which would you rather have in your relationships? Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:22-23). Gentleness is rooted in selflessness and humility. To be gentle, you must consider others before yourself as you lay down selfishness. It is taking on the very nature of Jesus. Paul described Jesus as gentle when he said, “Now I, Paul, myself urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ…” (2 Corinthians 10:1). Jesus described himself as gentle and lowly as well (Matthew 11:29). He said, “Learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” When we exhibit gentleness, we take on the very nature of Christ and invite relaxation and rejuvenation deep within our souls. 

Paul commanded the Philippians to rejoice in 4:4 and to be gentle in 4:5. These two actions are hard to do amid anguish and persecution. However, they are proactive and reactive keys to joy. We must be committed to gentleness before we need to be, especially when others are harsh. One might ask, “Why should we be gentle when others are not toward us?” I can think of at least four reasons Paul asked the Philippians (and us) to be gentle. First, Paul commanded them to do it. This is not a suggestion, but a choice every believer must incorporate into their life as a Christ follower. Second, Paul wanted it to “be evident to all.” Paul’s witness resulted in many coming to Christ, and he desired their witness to be effective. Third, “The Lord is near.” This takes on two reasons.  Jesus will come again as judge and will assess and expect this quality in His followers. Fourth, Jesus can judge pure gentleness because he knows what it means to exhibit it fully.  Because He is “gentle and lowly,” we too should be.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Does everyone know you as a gentle person?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Take a moment to think about how Jesus was gentle and lowly. Now, allow the Lord to process your last few interactions with people. Did you display the gentleness of Christ?

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Consider Paul’s purpose for gentleness in being a witness for Christ. Look for ways today where gentleness can be a pathway for gospel conversations. Think about how it can disarm and invite others to hear the Good News.