The Power Of Gentleness

YouVersion: http://bible.com/events/48804401

“The gentle are blessed, for they will inherit the earth.”  (Matthew 5:5 )

Gentleness…             

  • … defuses anger.

“A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1 )

“If the ruler’s anger rises against you, don’t leave your place, for calmness puts great offenses to rest.” (Ecclesiastes 10:4 )

  • … disables critics.

“… when we are slandered, we respond graciously. Even now, we are like the world’s garbage, like the dirt everyone scrapes off their sandals.” (1 Corinthians 4:13 )

  • … is persuasive.

“A ruler can be persuaded through patience, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.” [HCSB]  “Gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.” [MSG] (Proverbs 25:15 )

  • … is attractive.

“As a man of God … pursue what God approves of: godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.” (1 Timothy 6:11 ) [GW]

  • … conveys love.

“Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”  (Colossians 3:19 )

“Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger. Do not exasperate them to resentment, but rear them tenderly in the training and discipline and counsel of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 ) [Amp]

  • … wins respect.

“A kindhearted woman gains honor …” (Proverbs 11:16 ) [NIV] 

“A woman of gentle grace will be respected.” (Proverbs 11:16  [MSG] 

  • … witnesses to unbelievers.

“Believers should never speak evil of anyone nor be quarrelsome. Instead they should be gentle and show courtesy to everyone.” (Titus 3:2 ) [GW]

  • … makes me more like Jesus. 

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is … 23 gentleness …”  (Galatians 5:22-23 )

Who can you practice gentleness with this week? _________________