If someone was to evaluate our daily communication with others, would they describe us as gentle or harsh?
Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. (Ephesians 4:2 NLT)
In Steps 6 and 7 we are preparing ourselves to have God remove all our defects of character and then ask Him to do so. It is not easy to change from being a self-centered, impatient and often unkind person, to being one who lives respectfully and gently with others whatever the circumstances. There is a natural unwillingness in us to admit that we’re not living and behaving well in community. We are also reluctant to acknowledge that we are powerless to make any change on our own and need God to work in us to help us do so.
What does a lifestyle of gentleness look like?
Forgiveness that expresses kindness to those who previously harmed us: Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32 NLT) Always speaking to or about someone with kindness and respect. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone. A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. (Titus 3:2, Proverbs 15:1 NLT)
Treating everyone with sincerity and generosity: But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. (James 3:17 NLT)
We may live gently with some people, some of the time but too often, too quickly, we find ourselves moving in the opposite direction. Let’s do an inventory with God today and allow Him to show us how we can grow in this beautiful character of gentleness.
Prayer: Loving God, I want to be a strong and gentle person but I know I often fall short. I am willing to have You work in me to remove my character defects and help me exhibit gentleness in my thoughts, my words, and my behaviour. AMEN
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