The Fruit of the Spirit is Gentleness


“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)


The penultimate characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit is gentleness. The Greek word for gentleness here is sometimes translated as meekness. It is the quality of showing humility, mildness, and modesty in one's behaviour and attitude. 


A gentle person avoids boastfulness, loudness or seeking to draw attention to himself. Instead, he is considerate and compassionate towards others, ready to yield to and learn from everyone, whether small or great.


The Holy Spirit is a gentle Spirit, symbolized by a dove. Doves are known for their gentle and peaceful nature. They are not typically aggressive and they avoid fighting with other birds. Jesus admonishes us to be as gentle/harmless/innocent as doves.


“Listen carefully: I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; so be wise as serpents, and innocent as doves [have no self-serving agenda].” (Matthew 10:16, Amplified)


Spiritual maturity goes hand-in-hand with emotional maturity. As we grow in the Lord, we master the ability to keep our cool in times of irritation and agitation.


Let me leave you with this profound quote from Anne Frank, “In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.”


Remain inspired!

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