What Is Gentleness?

One of the fruit of the spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23 is gentleness. It is listed separately from kindness, but they are closely related.

Another translation for gentleness is meekness, which means polite, restrained behavior toward others. The opposite would be speaking harshly or rudely, or showing unrestrained anger toward others. 

The fruit of gentleness is so important because it supports the fruit of love, kindness, goodness, and self-control, as well. As Christians, it is our witness to a generally harsh world. When we are gentle in our dealings with others, we stand out. When we are kind and polite when others would typically be harsh and rude, it softens the hearer and introduces them to a loving God without their even knowing it at first.

But make no mistake, gentleness is not weakness. Jesus was the picture of meekness, yet He was never without power! He was in control the whole time He walked the earth. He walked through every situation as a Master yet, at the same time, always operated in love, humility, and gentleness. 

Because He did this, God always did whatever Jesus asked Him in prayer!