“Sometimes it’s not the strength

but gentleness

that cracks the hardest shells”

Richard Paul Evans

 

I do not claim to have mastered gentleness

as with any virtue, I am still in process

if I am gentle, it is not due to anything good in me

but the indwelling of the One…who changes the heart

 

GENTLENESS is…

 

curiosity in seeking truth

listening to another’s point of view

speaking respectfully

with a gentle and quiet spirit

 

questioning everything

listening more than you speak

showing empathy

putting yourself in the shoes of others

 

being at peace with all men

considering them as important as yourself

and worthy of kindness

treating others as you wish to be treated

 

showing you care

practicing patience

bringing tenderness and love to the situation

with humility and self-control

 

these are the attributes of GENTLENESS

not everyone has it all together

one may have situations too uncomfortable to share

be a person who can be trusted to be there

 

in a culture of harshness,

anger, cruelty and shaming

being kind to all, be a friend,

willing to just sit with them in their pain

 

we are to speak with sensitivity

in GENTILENESS and respect, to educate

if we expect any glimmer of hope

to being understood in issues that matter

 

lastly, be gentle with your own heart

look to the Lord, the Gentle Shepherd

allowing Him to carry your burdens

and give you peace and rest

 

Jesus invites you to:

“Take my yoke upon you

Let me teach you,

because I am humble and gentle at heart

and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29