Gentleness...
• … defuses anger.
“A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1)
“If the ruler’s anger rises against you, don’t leave your place, for calmness puts great offenses to rest.” (Ecclesiastes 10:4)
• … disables critics.
“… when we are slandered, we respond graciously. Even now, we are like the world’s garbage, like the dirt everyone scrapes off their sandals.” (1 Corinthians 4:13)
• … is persuasive.
“A ruler can be persuaded through patience, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.” [HCSB] “Gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.” [MSG] (Proverbs 25:15)
• … is attractive.
“As a man of God ... pursue what God approves of: godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.” (1 Timothy 6:11) [GW]
• … conveys love.
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” (Colossians 3:19)
“Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger. Do not exasperate them to resentment, but rear them tenderly in the training and discipline and counsel of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) [Amp]
• … wins respect.
“A kindhearted woman gains honor …” (Proverbs 11:16) [NIV]
“A woman of gentle grace will be respected.” (Proverbs 11:16) [MSG]
• … witnesses to unbelievers.
“Believers should never speak evil of anyone nor be quarrelsome. Instead they should be gentle and show courtesy to everyone.” (Titus 3:2) [GW]
• … makes me more like Jesus.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is … gentleness …” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Who can you practice gentleness with this week? _________________