I never finished writing on the fruits of the Holy Spirit. We still have to go over gentleness and self control. So here’s gentleness:
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” Proverbs 15:1
It always seems that someone who raises their voice, and answers with harsh words is picking a fight…right? But it’s really difficult to argue with someone who chooses their words wisely and gently. This proverb spells it out for us…that by choosing gentle words, we are seeking peace not wrath. Don’t we get further by dishing out honey rather than vinegar? This brings up another proverb, “The power of life or death is in the tongue.”…or as the New Living Translation puts it…”The tongue can bring life or death; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Proverbs 18:21
It’s our words…they can either build someone up or tear someone down. The Holy Spirit teaches us how to be gentle and build people up.
“Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4
Again, it’s in the tongue. But do you think this has anything to do with the kind of things we put into our bodies? I’m talking about our mental and intellectual diets; the kind of books we read, music we listen to, the people we hang out with, movies we watch…etc. Here’s some food for thought…What’s in your heart will come out of your mouth… This is why the more and more we draw closer to God, the more and more the Holy Spirit reveals this gift of gentleness to us. It’s a character trait that comes directly from the heart of God.
Remember that Jesus said…”Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart…” Matthew 11:29