“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