In a world that often values aggression and harshness, we are called to embody a different kind of strength – one rooted in gentleness. This gentleness isn’t weakness; rather, it’s a powerful attribute of God Himself, manifested through His Spirit in the lives of believers.
As we explore the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23, we encounter a quality that might seem at odds with our culture’s definition of strength: gentleness. But this gentleness, far from being passive or weak, is a transformative force that shapes our character and interactions.
The Divine Nature of Gentleness
Gentleness is not just a human virtue; it’s a fundamental attribute of God. In Romans 2:4, we’re reminded that it’s “the riches of his goodness [same word translated “gentleness” in Gal. 5:22] and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” This divine gentleness is what draws us to Him, offering us the opportunity to change our minds and embrace the gospel.
The Psalmist beautifully captures this aspect of God’s nature in Psalm 18:35: “. . . thy gentleness hath made me great.” It’s through God’s gentle handling of our lives that we are lifted up and transformed. This should cause us to pause and reflect – how often do we appreciate the gentle ways God works in our lives?
A Model for Ministry
The Apostle Paul, in his letters, repeatedly emphasizes the importance of gentleness in ministry. In 1 Thessalonians 2:7, he describes his approach: “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.” This imagery of a nurturing mother tenderly caring for her children paints a vivid picture of how spiritual leadership should look.
Paul’s ministry wasn’t characterized by harshness or angry preaching, but by a gentle, patient approach that sought to build up believers in love. He understood that true strength in ministry comes not from domineering behavior, but from a gentle spirit that reflects Christ’s own nature.
Walking in Gentleness
As believers, we’re called to embody this gentleness in our daily walk. Titus 3:2 exhorts us “to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.” This is a high calling – to extend gentleness not just to those we like or agree with, but to all people.
Colossians 3:12 further emphasizes this, instructing us to “put on… kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.” These qualities, closely related to gentleness, should characterize our interactions with others. They’re not optional add-ons to our faith, but essential components of a Spirit-led life.
The Struggle and the Choice
Living out this gentleness isn’t always easy. We live in a world that often equates gentleness with weakness, and we may find ourselves tempted to respond to difficulties with anger or harshness. Paul acknowledges this struggle in 2 Corinthians 10:1-3, where he speaks of the tension between boldness and gentleness in his ministry.
The key lies in understanding that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but is spiritual in nature. We can’t control how others perceive us, but we can control our own responses. Each moment presents us with a choice – will we react from our flesh, or will we allow the Spirit to produce His fruit of gentleness in us?
The Power of Love
Ultimately, gentleness is an expression of love. In the famous “charity chapter,” 1 Corinthians 13, we’re told that “Charity suffereth long, and is kind.” This kindness, another translation of the word for gentleness, is intrinsically linked to the greatest of all spiritual gifts – charity.
When we struggle to respond with gentleness, it’s often because we’ve lost sight of charity. By refocusing on God’s love for us and His call for us to love others, we open ourselves to the gentle working of His Spirit in our lives.
A Life of Contrasts
Living out this gentleness often puts us at odds with the world around us. In 2 Corinthians 6:10, Paul describes the Christian life as one of contrasts – “As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” In the midst of these contrasts, it’s the Holy Spirit who equips us to respond with long-suffering and kindness.
This life of gentleness doesn’t mean we’ll never face difficulties or that we’ll always respond perfectly. But it does mean that at each moment, we have a choice. We can choose to set aside our “stinking thinking” and allow God’s Spirit to work through us.
Practical Steps Toward Gentleness
So how do we cultivate this gentleness in our lives? Here are a few practical steps:
- Renew your mind daily through Scripture and prayer. (Rom. 12:1-2)
- “Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Col. 3:2)
- Bring your anxieties to God in prayer, trusting His gentle care for you. (Phil. 4:6)
- When faced with a difficult situation, pause and consciously choose to respond in gentleness.
- Reflect on God’s gentleness toward you, and let that motivate your interactions with others.
Remember, manifesting gentleness isn’t about your own effort or willpower. It’s about allowing the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit in your life. Just as a dog might get in the way when you’re trying to vacuum, our flesh often interferes with the Spirit’s work. The key is to “get out of our own way” and let God’s gentle strength shine through us.
In a world that often values harshness and aggression, choosing gentleness can feel countercultural. But it’s through this very gentleness that we most clearly reflect the character of Christ and the transformative power of the gospel. As we embrace this fruit of the Spirit, we become living testimonies to the gentle strength of our God – a strength that doesn’t crush or dominate, but lifts up and restores.
May we all grow in this grace, allowing God’s gentleness to make us truly great.
Pastor Bryan Ross
Grace Life Bible Church
Grand Rapids, MI
Friday, October 10, 2025
Resources For Further Study
70) Galatians 5:22 The Fruit of the Spirit, Part 6 (Gentleness)