But the Holy Spirit gives us a new quality for living, which is gentleness (1 Peter 3:4). Consider Galatians 5:23 which says that gentleness is part of the fruit (or evidence) of the Holy Spirit within us. To understand what gentleness looks like in practice, lets look at some examples from scripture: Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. It is important to remember that as Christians we are called to more than this. "Entry for 'GENTLENESS'". Therefore, as followers of Jesus we are called to exhibit this character trait in our own lives. Gentleness is closely related to humility and meekness. This is why someone like Coco Chanel could say that gentleness doesnt get things done. Harshness is usually the response of someone with little power trying to attain it through violence. This is similar language to what Paul used in 1 Corinthians 4:21, when he contrasts gentleness with coming to them with a rod.. A gentle touch or kind word can go a long way in building trust and rapport, fostering cooperation and obedience. I use sarcasm and snap back at my childrens remarks. It can only tell us what we should not do and why its wrong. He emphasizes the gentle aspect of meekness toward others. We are harsh and brutish when we are attempting to grab ahold of authority or power that isnt our own. The opposite of peace is not war, it's fear. Consider Galatians 5:23 which says that gentleness is part of the fruit (or evidence) of the Holy Spirit within us. Its about how we treat others, even when they dont treat us well. In some ways these two words are opposite poles of a spectrum: Meekness or gentleness is the quality of having strength under control, while humility is the quality of self-forgetfulness and giving up personal rights for the sake of others. Gentleness also means that we are patient with those who disagree with us, because they may have valid reasons for their position or opinion. Below are a few examples of how to practice this virtue in your life. It can be difficult to remain gentle when we have been hurt, but it is important to remember that everyone makes mistakes and that nobody is perfect. Gentleness is feeling this way about other human beings. Such an invitation, from such a person, is precious beyond words. The apostle Paul stated that "a slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be . I'm Megan, and this is my creative space. These two qualities seem to go together. These individuals were known for their kindness, care, and compassion for others. If children cannot obey their parents who they can see physically, how will they obey God who they cannot see. Gentleness Defined Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. Jesus was gentle, even when He was being crucified. Its a way of dealing with people, yourself, and God. Colossians 3:20 (esv). sometimes it requires great gentleness. The quality of gentleness is the opposite of harshness with others. And how can you use gentleness to improve your relationships with others? The Old Testament. Gentleness is a requisite for a servant of God, particularly one in a responsible position of oversight. . Join us here for a short study on gentleness in the bible and how to live it out. "International Standard Bible Encyclopedia". The Bible says that gentleness is not soon angry. (1 Cor. But you, man of God, flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance andgentleness (I Timothy 6:11). Honestly, a change in our worldview/theology would do a great deal of work here as well. He discloses himself not just in wind and earthquake and fire, but in "a gentle whisper" ( 1 Kings 19:11-13 ). To have gentleness is to have a gentle spirit or nature about you. In fact, it mentions it in several places. I get upset easily and raise my voice. . We live in a broken world, and it can be easy to become jaded and hardened by the pain we see around us. Gentleness is an important virtue because it makes the world a better place. Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology - Gentleness, Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, International Standard Bible Encyclopedia - Gentleness. This means more "that which is fitting, right, and equitable." Opposite of the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered. The Bible says that gentleness is not soon angry. (1 Cor. And God in Christ is exemplified by the gentleness with which he labored among others. This means more that which is fitting, right, and equitable. Think of this more as being kind and nice. These verses can be applied to any relationship or interaction with have with others. Our natural response is anger and retaliation. A common misconception is that gentleness is weakness or passivity. Beginning and End God has neither beginning nor end. Seeking the Gospel in Malachi, the Last Book of the Old Testament. In the Old Testament the Septuagint uses it once in Psalm 45:4. Not only does it mean being kind to people who are kind to you, but also it means being kind even when someone isnt nice back! 5:22). The Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek NT defines it this way: Prautes denotes the humble and gentle attitude which expresses itself, in particular, in a patient submissiveness to offense, free from malice and desire for revenge controlled strength, the ability to bear reproaches and slights without bitterness and resentment; the ability to provide a soothing influence on someone who is in a state of anger, bitterness and resentment against life the word indicates an obedient submissiveness to God and His will, with unwavering faith and enduring patience displaying itself in a gentle attitude and kind acts toward others, and this often in the face of opposition.. He was said to have been cracking a walnut with a sledgehammer. 2. You can be gentle in him thanks for sharing and encouraging . If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. James contrasts gentleness with filthiness and rampant wickedness. It is the mark of being one of wisdom. In sum, the Scriptures show God as a kind and gentle leader. Church leaders are admonished to be "not violent but gentle" toward persons under their care ( 1 Tim 3:3 ); it is a quality they are avidly to pursue ( 1 Tim 6:11 ). Is it? It is related to another Greek word often used in the New Testament, (tapeinophrosyne), which speaks of humility or lowliness of mind. There is a strong connection in the bible between gentleness and the power of words. According to that definition, one could say that gentleness isnt doing, it is being done to. The Holy Spirit wants us to cultivate this fruit of gentleness in our lives. When people are kind and caring, they are more likely to get along with others and resolve conflicts peacefully. harshness. They are often areas where we carry deep wounds and trauma from our past. We need His help to be gentle! In the New Testament epieikeia ("fairness," "moderation," in Acts 24:4 translated "clemency") is in 2Corinthians 10:1 translated "gentleness," "the meekness and gentleness of Christ" (2 Macc 2:22 "favour," the Revised Version (British and American) "forbearance"); chrestotes, "kindness," "usefulness," is translated "gentleness" in Galatians 5:22 the King James Version, the Revised Version (British and American) "kindness"; chrestos is the word translated "kind" (to the unthankful and evil, Luke 6:35), and chrestotes seems to carry in it a similar idea of active kindness. Gentleness is something Christians must learn. As a parent, I see gentleness as one of the most important character qualities we need to focus on in our family. People should be able to see Christ in us because we are kind and gentle to others, even when they are not to us. In addition, it is important to acknowledge the ways in which God is gentle with us. Gentleness is suggested by the waters of a stream ( Isa 8:6 ) or by wine flowing over lips and teeth ( So 7:9 ). For starters, Gentleness is the opposite of anger. Consider how you talk to yourself. We take those $ and give them to developing our Children's Programs. When we think of the life of Jesus, we often think of his miracles and his teachings. The good news is that Gentleness can be learned. To me, its important to raise my children with gentleness and tenderness. alain picard wife / ap calculus bc multiple choice / opposite of gentleness in the bible. He was talking about people who have mastered themselves their appetites, their passions, and their pride so that they can act with wisdom and self-control instead of being controlled by their emotions. Its hard to extend grace when someone has offended us. Let your gentleness be known of all men. Reach out to the person who hurt you and try to reconcile. Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance. 5. What is the definition of gentleness? I am not affectionate, and I fail to give loving hugs. So let us always be gentle! Copyright 2002-2023 Got Questions Ministries. Jesus describes Himself as gentle. The law cannot give us the strength to be gentle. You and those around you reap many benefits by prioritizing gentleness. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them (Acts 16:25) Then, Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the jail were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyones chains were unfastened. (Acts 16:26) The jailer woke up, and saw that the prison doors were open. Although gentleness in the Bible is also translated as "meekness". It was a failure, and he tore up a good deal of potential evidence. What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God? Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. Proud member Gentleness comes from a state of humility. Jesus had it: " I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls " ( Matthew 11:29, ESV). But the opposite is true. Job's counsels were well received, because he spoke them gently ( Job 29:22 ). And he is calling upon us to exude that same characteristic in our interaction with others. Gentleness is not just a nice thing to be; its a fruit of the Holy Spirit. The opposite of gentleness might be rudeness, being mean, or not considering other people's feelings. It is shown in the Old Testament and the New Testament. Gentleness is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, and its not just a nice thing to be. 5 Jun. It is power over one's Spirit that exudes a meek and mild person like Jesus. The fruit of the Spirit is essentially the character of Jesus. He was a rough man by trade, but when it came to leading men to Christ, he employed great gentleness. It is the ability to be kind and loving even in the face of adversity. In 2 Macc 15:12 Onias is said (the King James Version) to be "gentle (praos) in condition," the Revised Version (British and American) "in manner.". People will see Jesus in us when we are gentle. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit (Proverbs 15:4). Gentleness in our day of polarization and heated rhetoric might go a long way in helping people to see the beauty of Jesus. 4. Gentleness is an attitude or disposition that involves treating others with care and courtesy (1 Pet 3:8). The apostle Paul wrote, Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32). As Yahweh's representative, the messianic king comes in humility and gentleness ( Zec 9:9 ). So, you might be surprised to know the Bible has much to say about gentleness. God wants children to learn obedience to Him through their parents. There are many benefits to being gentle, including happiness, better relationships, and less stress. Why Gentleness Is So Important As a Christian, you demonstrate the Spirit at work in your life when you show gentleness. Antonyms: drunkenness, excess, gluttony, greed, intemperance, intoxication, reveling, revelry, self-indulgence, sensuality, wantonness Synonyms: abstemiousness, abstinence, continence, fasting, frugality, moderation, self-denial, self-restraint, sobriety, temperance Preposition: The negative side of virtue is abstinence from vice. Doing so creates a closer connection and will save you from needless hardships in your relationships. When Jesus needed to not be interupted, he went off to a place to pray- my sons understand when I am in my room with the door closed. Its a quality that we should all strive to embody, especially in our relationships with others. Gentleness is opposed to all forms of prideful anger: "quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility" ( 2 Corinthians 12:20 ). brutality. The picture would be exponentially worse than a very small child trying to hold a kitten, not wielding his power correctly and doing irreparable harm to the small animal. Jesus teaches us, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). The quality of gentleness is the opposite of harshness with others. It is the opposite of harshness and violence. What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God? Galatians 5 . Unfortunately, sometimes in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we can become more focused on getting things done than on being kind to the ones we love. A gentle heart comes from having love for others. As any parent knows, raising children can be a rewarding but challenging task. What is the opposite of gentleness in the Bible? He comes to them not "with a whip [but] in love and with a gentle spirit" ( 1 Cor 4:21 ). In the Greek written long before the NT came about, the noun meant "gentleness, mild friendliness" (DNTT). Scripture says for a woman to have that internal heart attitude of meekness or gentleness and a quiet spirit gives her a beauty that is imperishable. But His grace is sufficient for us, right!? But the Bible speaks differently. Truth be told, it takes a strong person to be truly gentle. After all, he was a man who was without sin and yet he showed great compassion and mercy towards others, even those who were sinners. Paul appeals to believers "by the meekness and gentleness of Christ" ( 2 Cor 10:1 ). Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23) "I'll believe it when I see it.". This is what we are called to do as Christs disciples! The law cannot give us the strength to be gentle. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is love? We're also more likely to receive blessings from God. If you want to make the world a better place, start by being gentle with others. Salem Media Group. When we are gentle with our children, we model for them the way God treats uswith patience, understanding, and love. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his poem entitled "The Village Blacksmith" gives us a wonderful demonstration of genuine gentleness. The fruit of the Spirit is essentially the character of Jesus. Part I: Meekness and Humility Toward God In the Bible, meekness is primarily emphasized as submissiveness toward God (rather than toward men). In sharing the good news of the gospel we are to do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15-16). Gentleness is a value and quality in one's character. Gentleness is not just a nice thing to be; its a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Gentleness in marriage As wives, we don't have the physical strength our husbands do, usually. Gentleness is more than just being nice and kind and caring towards others; its actually the quality of God Himself who has been poured out into our hearts by His Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:5). It seems to be synonymous with being a good person. I'm too self-centered to stop and kiss my child's scraped knee. A mildness of disposition or manner, thus the opposite of roughness or harshness. Christlikeness begins with a willingness to forgive and move forward. ( Matt. While many view meekness as a weakness, it is actually strength under control. Gentleness. You could also have the children play the role . The opposite of gentleness is: Rudeness, manipulation, or disrespect. Bibliography Information Orr, James, M.A., D.D. Doesnt gentleness keep us from getting things done? Gentle Christian Parenting is a participant in affiliate programs including the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other sites at no extra cost to you. The biblical concept of gentleness is often misunderstood. In this verse, Paul makes it clear that gentleness is not something from the Law or from human effort or will power; rather, it comes from Gods grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Proud member "We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children."1 Thessalonians 2:7 What is the opposite of gentleness? Gentleness is the quality or characteristic of being kind, tender, mild-mannered, compassionate, and considerate. He will still be gentle and lowly in heart. They are finding things that have been overlooked for years. Do you ever find yourself thinking this way? Gentleness comes from a state of humility. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is patience? Against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23). of the flesh" "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." (Gal. Violence, aggression, abuse, or brutality. We will be kind, patient, and humble. But thats not what the Bible talks about when it talks about gentleness. He could have called down twelve legions of angels to rescue Him, but He didnt. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is faithfulness? But more specifically we grow in gentleness by practicing it. Heres everything you need to know about this virtue and how you can use it in your life! Often our harshness comes from a place of fear. There is peace in our homes when nobody is arguing or fighting. It is a trait that is godly, and as His children God expects us to become gentle, as He is. This is shown in our thoughts and in the way we interact with those around us. Would you rather be around someone who is marked by a gentle spirit or one who is harsh, brutish, critical, and aggressive? The Greek word describes someone who has power but chooses not to use it harshly or selfishly. Galatians 5:22-23. gentle parenting bible study discussion guides, The Responsibilities of a Parent in the Bible, Children Should Be Seen and Not Heard A Biblical Perspective, Remember God Is In Control And He Cares About You, Gratitude In The Bible Key Verses and How To Apply Them, What It Means to Be a Good Steward in the Bible with Examples, 27 Bible Verses On Identity in Christ for Powerful Living, The Mystery of Mothers Intuition Revealed In The Bible. Gentleness in the bible means showing care and respect for others in the way that you act and speak. We who have the mind of Christ ought to also have at our core a gentleness of spirit. Jesus was gentle in his interactions with people when he preached about love or healed someone who was sick (see Matthew 9). In Galatians, Ephesians, and Colossians the word is used in lists combined with things like humility as virtues and graces. Gentle people are kind, caring, and considerate of others. Take out time to visit our catalog for more information on similar topics. Through prayer, we can ask God to give us a spirit of gentleness and take away any feelings of self-righteousness. A meek spirit, a gentle spirit, a quiet spirit. Remembering the end of the story can be helpful as well. Churchgists.com covers prayers, spiritual meaning, bible verses and dreams interpretation. It can be described with one word from the Book of Books. When we are full of the Holy Spirit, His fruit will be seen in our lives. 11:28-30 ) It's no accident that these words have been greatly celebrated. In this verse, Paul makes it clear that gentleness is not something from the Law or from human effort or will power; rather, it comes from Gods grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Required fields are marked *. We may picture someone who is easily intimidated or who shrinks back from conflict. Why is it important for Christians to be gentle? You may also enjoy:The Responsibilities of a Parent in the BibleChildren Should Be Seen and Not Heard A Biblical PerspectiveFree Bible Verse Coloring Pages (including the fruit of the Spirit bible verse), Your email address will not be published. Gentleness is a marker of power used and handled properly. Some of these people include Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa. As you seek to grow more gentle, focusing on or memorizing these verses will strengthen you and help you be more successful. It is a positive trait that can help you improve your relationships with others and even yourself. Gentleness is not weakness, but rather a powerful force for good in the world. Download these beautiful gentle scripture cards for free here! Gentleness has been a topic of discussion since the beginning of time. 1. Gentleness is suggested by the waters of a stream ( Isa 8:6 ) or by wine flowing over lips and teeth ( So 7:9 ). Gentleness isnt weakness; its not passive or submissive either. We learn to make their aims our aims. As Paul said, be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32 ) We never know when our kindness will lead someone into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We are to be calm and respectful when speaking with others. So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; Galatians 5:22-23. We also model for them the importance of exhibiting self-control and respect. The disciple James also wrote that Christians should be gentle toward all men (James 1:27). Its a way of life. In Galatians it is a mark of being led by the Spirit and it is shown as an example of walking in step with the Spirit in Galatians 6:1.

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