Values of the Incredible Family
Gentleness

Scripture Reading: James 3:17-18

Key Verse: Colossians 3:12

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

We will all need to make our own list of doorframe values.  The biblical list has enough suggestions that we can choose from to help us with our particular situation.  Today’s value, gentleness, is needed desperately by some of you.  If so, determine to make it a priority in your life to grow gentler in your dealings with family members, as well as in all your relationships.

            The Greek word for gentleness is “prautes” and is literally translated as mildness of disposition or meekness.  The opposite would be severe, rough or violent.  This value can be a natural personality characteristic for some people.  And it can be a personality characteristic to be absent of gentleness.  As Christ followers we must be honest about where we are weak and ask God to strengthen us at those points.  For you that are weak in this area of gentleness, you can grow gentleness in your life.  You may have to humble yourself and ask your spouse to help you hear and see when you are not being gentle.

            Gentleness is not weakness; rather it is a powerful way to handle problems.  A gentle person doesn’t need yelling or violence to get their point across.  The most effective communicators are people who stay in control of their emotions.  Ask God to help you be gentle in all your ways (Philippians 4:5).

Father, my flesh will not want to approach frustrations in a gentle manner today.  Please help me to be an effective and powerful person as I stay gentle in all my ways.  In Jesus’ name, amen.