Cultivating Spiritual FruitSample

Gentleness

"...Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone." Titus 3:2b

Gentleness or meekness is not cowardice or a weakness of any kind. Gentleness is a strength and power that is held in check. It’s described as a wise, self-controlled, calm mind, displaying a gentleness that’s not easily provoked. Gentleness is a close relative to and dependent on wisdom, humility, love, and mercy. (James 3:13)

Modeling meekness is imitating Jesus. “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Scripture encourages us to cultivate this fruit in order to live godly lives. In Christ, we learn how to be meek and lowly instead of self-promoting and arrogant with coworkers, neighbors, friends, and family. When we take up the invitation to be “gentle at heart”, we submit to His yoke, and we receive rest - the absence of weariness and anxiety - for our souls.

Gentleness has no conceit in it. Instead of giving ourselves credit, we can share what God has done in and through us. Meekness in action means serving others wholeheartedly and willingly. As the Holy Spirit grows this fruit in our lives, we learn to focus on what others need instead of our own self-interests. We cease to secretly compare our lives to others, and we learn how to celebrate their successes.

There is a special promise made to those who maintain gentleness. In Matthew 5:5, Jesus preached, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Inheriting land is an important Old Testament theme. God led the Israelites out of slavery with the promise of a new, bountiful territory. Not only do the lowly possess the land, but the meek will enjoy great peace. (Psalm 37:11)

The Holy Spirit teaches us how to have a proper view of ourselves, too. Thinking of others is important, but gentleness also involves learning to love yourself so that you can truly love others. In John 13:34, Jesus tells us, “So I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” You’re loving others when you stop hurting people with your lips and stop thinking negatively of them in your mind. This includes yourself!

What action do you need to take to be gentler?