“A Call For Gentleness” (Part Two)

This week we are considering the fruit of the Spirit called gentleness. In Galatians 5:23, it is the word “praotes” (found again in 6:1 a few verses later). In consulting some people smarter than me, I found this comprehensive definition of “praotes”- and I think it is a great definition. It says that “gentleness” means…

“mildness, indulgence toward the weak and erring, patient suffering of injuries without feelings of revenge, an even balance of all tempers and passions.”

This is a terrific definition. Let’s look at the elements of that definition and see how they fit together—biblically and practically.

A. Mildness

Does “mild”=Clark Kent? Not necessarily. It speaks of meekness, a general calmness of spirit. If you look closely at Jesus’ ministry, what you find is that Jesus was never in a hurry. He was never ruffled but was continually in control of His responses to life. It helps to be reminded that meekness is not weakness- it is strength under control. This truly models the heart and spirit of Christ- “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.” (Matt 11:29).

B. Indulgence toward the weak and erring

This is to be gracious and forgiving. It is not a condoning of sin, but a gracious concern for the sinner. This aspect of gentleness is best exemplified in Peter’s description of God’s concern for us, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9. It is being patient with the failures of others—even when it is within our power to hammer them.

C. Patient suffering of injuries without feelings of revenge

“Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matt 5:5). This is not a surrender of proper rights (see Paul defend his Roman citizenship) or cowardice. It is the willingness to endure— and Christ displayed this on the cross as He forgave His tormenters, for gentleness doesn’t seek to get mad or get even. It is the opposite of sudden anger, of malice, of long-harbored vengeance

D. Even balance of all tempers and passions

This speaks of living life with a sense of perspective and peace. A gentle heart is one that sees the big picture of life, rests in God’s hands and lives. This is true wisdom for life, and James says it includes gentleness, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17).

Tomorrow we will close by looking at some ways this gentleness can be applied to our hearts, lives, relationships, and ministries.