A GENTLE LIFESTYLE

If someone was to evaluate our daily interaction with others, would they describe us as gentle or harsh? 

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.   (Ephesians 4:2 NLT)

It is not easy to change from being a self-centered, impatient, and often unkind person to being one who lives respectfully and gently with others, regardless of the circumstances.  There is a natural unwillingness in each of us to admit that we are not living and behaving well in the community.  We are also reluctant to acknowledge that we are powerless to make any change on our own and need God to work in us to help us do so.

What does a gentle lifestyle look like?

Forgiveness that expresses kindness to those who may have previously harmed us:  Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.  (Ephesians 4:32, 4:2 NLT)

Always speaking about another person with kindness and respect:  They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.  A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. (Titus 3:2, Proverbs 15:1 NLT)

Addressing everyone with sincerity and generosity: But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.  (James 3:17 NLT)

Prayer: Loving God, I want to be a strong but gentle person. However, I know I often fall short.  I am willing to have You work in me to remove my character defects and help me exhibit gentleness to others in my thoughts, my words, and my behaviour. Amen