The character trait of gentleness is shown through habits of being kind and tender toward others. Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit, so it will only be a part of an obedient servant of God. Gal. 5:22 Kindness shows through acts of goodness and tenderness toward others. Being kind and gentle toward others helps them to know the love and concern that the Lord has for them. A Christian must always be watching for opportunities to show the kindness and gentleness of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. This kindness also includes a readiness to boldly and clearly proclaim God’s Word and to denounce sin when necessary – with the right attitude.
Because you live with your old nature, you will not often feel like being kind and gentle, but rather will feel like criticizing, seeking revenge, arguing, backbiting, spreading gossip, slandering, etc. You must learn to deny yourself and to do what the Lord tells you to do.
How do you show gentleness and kindness in your life?
- I am kind in the way that I speak to younger boys and girls.
- I speak kindly to other people.
- I am gentle and kind toward my brothers and sisters.
- I am gentle toward friends who need comforting during times of sorrow.
- I hug my father whenever I have the opportunity.
- I am kind to those who are unsaved, hoping to have an opportunity to witness to them.
- In social situations I use others’ first names or a title and their last names.
- I hug my mother whenever I have the opportunity.
- I am willing to help a younger child by tying his shoes, helping him to clean up, or helping him with his clothes.
- I am especially kind and gentle to those who have special needs; older people, babies, or handicapped people.
You must practice daily to resist fleshly feelings and show the kindness and gentleness of Jesus Christ. Set a specific goal for yourself in an area where you now have trouble showing kindness or gentleness. Pray and ask the Lord for His help as you work on your goal.
“But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.”
Matthew 18:6
