November 10

The Fruit Of The Spirit--Gentleness

And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. — 2 Tim 2:24 BSB

It’s not easy to cultivate the fruit of gentleness, because it has many counterfeits. Some people are naturally easy-going, lacking energy and ambition, or perhaps cowardly and mean-spirited. Many of us display moral weakness, making it easier to yield than to stand firm, whether physically or intellectually.

But true gentleness requires a considerable reserve of strength. The gentleness of God is paired with omnipotence. Creation, with its silent and gentle movements, reveals infinite forces at work. Imagine a boy trying to lift a heavy beam. By the time he reaches the end of his task, there might be a great crash as he drops the burden, exhausted. But if a strong man carries the same load, he will set it down gently, because he hasn’t used up his strength—he has plenty left.

It is the privilege of great strength to be gentle. Always remember that you are united with the Infinite God, and all things are possible for you. There must also be infinite compassion. We must be patient and understanding toward those who mistreat us or have been embittered by life’s hardships. Our goal should be to show kindness to them, to be gracious in the face of their rough or rude behavior. Let us acknowledge that some of it may stem from personal pain. This is why we bear gently with those who go astray, for we, too, are surrounded by weaknesses.

Deep humility is also essential. As Thomas à Kempis wrote: "If you want others to bear with you, bear with them. Try to be patient with the faults and shortcomings of others, whatever they may be, because you too have many failings that others must bear." Our resentment toward others should always be softened by the remembrance of our own sins. This is how we can become God’s own gentlefolk.

Prayer

O God, my life has not displayed the full fruits of the Spirit or reflected the gentleness of Christ. Forgive me, and help me to live in such a way that Christ’s beauty is seen in my face, His tone in my voice, His gentleness in my actions, and His unselfishness in my deeds. Amen.