It’s Wise to be Gentle

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God 

When some people hear the words gentle or meek, the first thought that comes to mind is a “Door Mat.” Is that what it means to be meek? 

The Greek word, praios, is translated in various ways: gentle, meek, and tender. It was associated with a gentle voice, a gentle wind or breeze, or a gentle beast, such as a horse that had been broken. It implies power under control, and rightfully so. 

In the case of a Christ follower, it means being under the control of God; free of malevolence, bitterness, hostility, spitefulness, or vengeance. And if you think about it, these attitudes involve relationships because they deal with how we treat others. A Christ follower should be meek both in his or her relationship with God and with man.

We need to be gentle because we follow Christ as our example. Matthew, one of the first Christ followers, quoted Jesus in his Gospel, “All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart” [Matthew 11:29].

We need to be gentle because it is a characteristic of all those whose lives have been changed by the Spirit of God, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” [Galatians 5:22-23]. 

Oh, and don’t forget there is an inheritance for the those who demonstrate gentleness. Jesus told us about that, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” [Matthew 5:5].

Gentleness doesn’t come naturally. That’s why we need the Spirit’s help. Left to our carnal tendencies, we would display arrogance and selfishness toward others. God’s way is better. A wise person is a gentle person.

Who is wise and has understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom’s gentleness. James 3:13