Good morning, Five Minute Families. Do you hold the door for others? Are you actively teaching your children to be courteous? Do you display chivalrous behavior when it is called for? We are at the second attribute that we will be discussing about the fruit of the spirit – gentleness.

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit as well.” Galatians 5:22-25

Did you know that the original indications of the word ‘gentle’ came from the concept of being courteous or chivalrous?  A quick definition in dictionaries of today will tell you that gentle means to be mild or moderate. But, let us point out that gentleness is NOT being a doormat or a pushover. It isn’t being gullible, soft, or weak. Gentleness isn’t shyness, either.

Gentleness is strength, actually – controlled strength: strength of character, strength of resolve, strength in God’s truth and righteousness, strength of the self-control the Holy Spirit is producing in you. Out-going, talkative people can be gentle; shy, quiet people can be gentle. Gentleness isn’t a personality trait; it is a fruit of the spirit. It is an attribute that ALL personality types can exhibit if they have the holy spirit living inside them.

Gentleness brings communication 1 Peter 3:15 “sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect”

Gentleness brings consideration of all people – Titus 3:1-2 “Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to slander no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing every consideration for all people.”

Gentleness brings correction – 2 Timothy 2:25 “Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to slander no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing every consideration for all people.”

Gentleness brings restoration – Galatians 6:1 “Brothers and sisters, even if a person is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you are not tempted as well.”

Gentleness brings unity – Ephesians 4:1-3 “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

As someone once wrote, “A gentle person keeps lines of communication open; he is approachable, even to opponents or strangers.” Gentle people reach out to others in ways that make others want to reach out to them.

Livingbydesign.org states, “The word gentle takes another dimension when considered as a verb referring to a horse. A wild horse should be “gentled” by a trainer so it will become responsive to instructions. Only then can a horse’s strength be harnessed.”

We see from this use of the word gentle as a verb that it is an action we need to take in order to exhibit the attribute of gentleness. So, how does a five-minute family practice gentleness to further develop this attribute of the fruit of the Spirit?

Our family members must submit to Jesus.

We must be known as a family that forgives others.

We must listen more and speak less, if you have a talkative habit. Remember Proverbs 15: 1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

We must speak the truth in love… truly it is the “in love” that ultimately defines the gentleness, but note that if you are to follow God’s direction for restoration as outlined in Galatians 6, then you have to speak, even if you are more of a quiet person.

And, finally, we must avoid foolish arguments, gossip, and drama. This takes intentionality and practice. Deep breathes, new routines, and communication skills practice may be needed.

It is through little interactions every day, at home, at the store, in school, and everywhere in between that we have the opportunity to exhibit gentleness.

We pray that God blesses your family this week as you practice being gentle with one another. God loves you. Walk in His mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Be blessed!