Gentleness

But the fruit that the Spirit produces in a person’s life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these kinds of things. Galatians 5:22,23

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Galatians 6:1

We don’t see a lot of this on TV or in the movies because gentleness does not make good drama, or newspaper headlines. It is boring. It seems to be much better watching friends fall out, fight and even kill to get their own selfish way. Take a look at any of the TV soaps which are filled with all of these things, and for good measure add shouting, adultery and infidelity. That’s what seems to sell to the masses. After all, that’s what we clamour to tune in to.

Real life, however is a very different thing. The poor, bereaved, depressed and lonely don’t want or need aggravation. They need and yearn for some Godly gentleness in their lives, and can you blame them? If it isn’t found on the media, then where would we find gentleness? Godly gentleness is a wonderful thing, and unmistakeable when you come across it. When seen at its best, I would suggest you would want it, even more than the ‘brutality’ mess that the media serves up every night.

Next time you are tempted to join in the all too easy media mess, spare a second thought of those who are watching you. Mum and dad? Son or daughter? Friend or neighbour? Whoever they might be, it would make a refreshing change to see in you and me, a ‘gentle-man’ or a ‘gentle-woman’ positively beaming with that God given fruit of the Spirit, gentleness.