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The Strength of Gentleness

Be glad in the Lord always! Again I say, be glad! Let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people. The Lord is near.

—Philippians 4:4-5

Most of us really appreciate being around people who exude kindness and gentleness. We may wonder what it is they have that gives them the strength to be like that. We may marvel that they are so consistent in their mannerisms, so quietly confident in who they are. They treat everyone they meet as though they were lifelong friends. They’re strong, and we admire them.

Those who are confident in who they are, who lead with integrity and fight the good fight, have no need to come out in a raging fury. They know that more can be accomplished for the good of all others by a gentle spirit. As it says in Proverbs 15, “A sensitive answer turns back wrath, but an offensive word stirs up anger.”

May gentleness stir in your heart today, coming to your aid when someone is unkind, standing up for you when someone bruises your spirit, and guiding you when you can’t quite find your way. May the gentleness of Jesus permeate your soul and fix itself on those who come into your midst. As you show them your gentle spirit, God will show them his.

Even in chaos, show a spirit of gentleness and love.

QUIET THE WAVES

Lord, you so often deal gently with me. Help me keep my head around others today, giving them a gentle touch of love according to your will and purpose. Amen.