Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Gentleness

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? 

Scripture to Claim:
…to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.   Titus 3:2 

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