2016 Submitted by David Miller
The theme of Paul’s message to the Philippians is to rejoice no matter what. Even in the most difficult situations or challenges in life, the Holy Spirit will grant us an eternal perspective and “rejoice” over any circumstance. With this thought in mind, Paul continues to write;
“Let
your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5)
The result of joy residing in our hearts, we will display evidence of being
gentle. A gentle person is hard to find these days. It is in direct contrast to
the world. Having a spirit of gentleness means looking out for the interest of
others; living in humility, consider others better than yourselves; and being
considerate.
But let’s take a closer look at the word “gentleness.”
Since God is forgiving and good (Psalm
86:5), abounding in love to all who
call to him even though we are undeserving of his goodness, we should display
the same goodness or gentleness to others. The essence of the word gentleness
is “gentle toleration for others in spite
of having justification for intolerance.” This characteristic of gentleness
is impossible without Christ and His grace and forgiveness for us.
We find it very difficult, if not impossible, to offer gentleness without
experiencing gentleness in return. Yet, this is what Christ has done for us.
Our response is expressing Christ’s love in return through our outward
gentleness toward others without expecting anything in return.
The question I leave with you today is, “What legacy will you leave?” Will
your loved ones remember you as a man or woman of gentleness who rejoiced, or a
person who wrapped themselves up in day to day living, anxious about today and
tomorrow, never seeming to be satisfied, never fully trusting that Christ
provides for us?
I believe a man or woman will leave a legacy — a spiritual one. A legacy of
faith. A legacy of being gentle, kind,
patient, loving, and forgiving. Solomon
was considered an extremely successful person, but all that he attained he
considered “dust in the wind.” Do you
truly realize that two hundred years from now, nobody will know who you are or
what you accomplished? You will be just a name on a family tree. What will your legacy look like?
…to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. Titus 3:2
