Text: Galatians 5.13-26
Gentleness (also translated “meekness” in the Bible) can be defined as strength under control, or calmness within chaos. It’s in these times of chaos we most need God’s Spirit to demonstrate this “fruit” in our lives: a child is seriously “off the rails” facing legal issues, our spouse continues to make poor decisions, and our supervisor constantly criticizes our work. Stress and anxiety rise as we’re besieged by situations where it’s easy to become rattled.
As Pastor Brad Gray reminded us this past weekend, those who exhibit gentleness aren’t easily rattled. Instead of responding sinfully, with “…hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage…” (Galatians 5.20), we submit to the Spirit as he causes the fruit of gentleness to blossom and grow.
In situations large and small, each and every day, we choose how we’ll respond. It’s in these times of chaos, only through the supernatural work of the Spirit, we’re able to respond in a God-honoring way.
Today, as you welcome God into your week with open hands, release to him (confess) those recent situations where you demonstrated little—or no—gentleness. As you thank him for his forgiveness, pray about similar situations which you’ll probably face this week. Ask him, well before you walk into these situations, for the power to demonstrate gentleness in the midst of chaos.
