The Spiritual Fruit of Gentleness

Mike Criswell

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"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, GENTLENESS, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such, there is no law," Galatians 5:22-23.

Have you ever come across a word that just seems to defy definition? I realize that not everyone is as passionate about words as I am, but human language is interesting and, unfortunately, so imprecise at times. I mean how many words do you know that have more than one meaning? It can be a bramble patch.

For me (who is less than proficient in Greek) the word “gentleness” is a bit challenging. The original Greek word "chrestotes" seems to deal with one’s disposition and attitude toward others. One author put it this way, “It is the grace which pervades the whole nature, mellowing all which would be harsh and austere.” I like that statement!

Sometimes, the word is translated as kindness, moral goodness, gentleness, or integrity. As with many of Paul’s “lists,” the words he chooses often have wonderful overlap of meaning. No doubt the Holy Spirit intended it this way so we could know the kaleidoscope of God’s nature.

Let’s spend a moment applying this word. As noted, the word has a variety of nuances. In Ephesians 2:7 Paul uses the word to refer to the “kindness” God had for us in Christ long before the world began.

As it applies to humans it carries the idea of gentleness in dealing with others. As someone said, “It is the ability of acting for the welfare of those who are taxing your patience.” In other words, when someone is driving us nuts or dogging us, we just do what’s right and overlook their attitude. That sounds a lot like what we also learned about “forgiveness,” doesn’t it? 

Isn’t it amazing just how many of these “Christian graces” are our unilateral choice? God gives us the power within our own heart to deal with adversity even when others are scoundrels. In short, the word conveys the idea of being adaptable to others rather than requiring others to adapt to our own desires.

So, let’s say someone does something that bugs you, or maybe even sins against you. Well, take a deep breath! Don’t let your emotions or selfishness take over. Show gentleness and grace. Be kind and loving. Realize that the best way to overcome evil is with good.

Try to see others as assets and children of God rather than hindrances to your agenda. God didn’t put others on this earth as tools for our schemes. He put them here to love, cherish, and to be gentle toward. If that sounds too “soft,” then we’re probably being too “hard.”