A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.                                                                                                                  

                                                                                                     Proverbs 15:1 

Today: Read Proverbs 15

Although some people may be more prone to being hot tempered than others, we have all had times when we have become angry. Stress, frustration, and fatigue can all contribute to irritability and anger. When something is not going the way that we desire and we feel powerless to change it, anger can manifest itself. It’s been said that music calms the savage beast, but when it comes to human interaction, the calm, cool, and collected prevail. Today’s passage reminds us that we are empowered when we approach situations with gentleness. We live in a world that often views gentleness as a weakness rather than an asset, but the reality is that anyone can act unbecomingly. Self-control, patience, and gentleness are for the strong and disciplined individual. The Bible has much to say about gentleness and the role that it plays in the Christian life.

First, being gentle means that we are blessed. Consider these two declarations from the Beatitudes:

Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth. 

                                                                        Matthew 5:5 

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

                                                                           Matthew 5:9

When we bring gentleness and peace to a volatile situation, we are bringing blessing to the lives of those involved. Peacemakers are those who are quick to bring a rational spirit and tone to any situation. A hot-tempered person only stirs up strife but those that are slow to anger are able to calm a dispute (Proverbs 15:18). As Christians, this type of attitude is imperative if we are going to accurately display the character of Christ. Consider the following:

Now I, Paul, myself urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ… 

                                                                                    2 Corinthians 10:1a

Just imagine, Almighty God, the Creator of the universe came to earth and took on human flesh in the Person of Christ. Paul describes Jesus as gentle, a truth echoed by Christ Himself (Matthew 11:29). To be gentle is to be blessed and to accurately display the character of Christ Himself.

Secondly, scripture equates gentleness to wisdom. Consider the words of James:

Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 

                                                                                                            James 3:13 

For us to claim to have spiritual wisdom, we must be able to demonstrate it in our lives. Part of this wisdom is in understanding that for us to consistently live in a spirit of gentleness we need to live in the power of the Spirit of God. Our sinful nature will always work against this, as frustration and anger will still manage to surface in our lives. But remembering that the fruit of the Spirit includes gentleness, will serve to remind us to yield to God’s working in our lives by His Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Those who bring a rational, gentle, and understanding spirit to a situation exhibit that they possess wisdom.

Finally, whether we are handling fellow believers or those outside of the body of Christ, we are to approach them with gentleness. As believers, consider our instructions in handling one another: 

Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.

                                                                                                       Galatians 6:1 

If someone is caught in destructive behavior, as Christians, we should assist them (if they will allow) in moving back to a place of redemption. But Paul specifically tells us to do so in a spirit of gentleness. Our attitude toward the other person may be the difference between our being an asset or a liability. And as important as a gentle spirit is in handling those in the church, it is even more essential as we interact with those outside of the body of Christ. Consider the directive of Peter: 

…but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence…

                                                                                                       1 Peter 3:15

As we share the gospel with others, we should always do so with respect and gentleness. Just as in handling a believer, our attitude towards others could be the difference between seeing them saved or remaining lost. In order to share good news, we must first gain the opportunity to share and that opportunity is often gained by exhibiting a spirit of gentleness and respect.

There is no room for believers to get frustrated, angry, or hostile with anyone, believer or otherwise. Militant Christianity is a contradiction. Christians should be known as a people who bring a rational, calming outlook to any situation. Although the world may not recognize the wisdom found in gentleness, apply this attitude to your daily experiences and enjoy the empowerment and effectiveness that gentleness brings. 

Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.

                                                                                                            Titus 3:1-2