"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23
My 14-month-old son has a fascination with faces. He can't stop touching them. This almost always results in eyes being poked rather unceremoniously. We have to keep reminding him, "Gentle, son. People will stop liking you if you hurt them."
Gentleness isn't only a physical characteristic, though. In addition to actions, it can also describe words, thoughts, wishes, and even prayers. I think all of us are guilty of using the phrase, "I prayed so hard!" But really, is that what God wants?
Gentleness isn't only a physical characteristic, though. In addition to actions, it can also describe words, thoughts, wishes, and even prayers. I think all of us are guilty of using the phrase, "I prayed so hard!" But really, is that what God wants?
"Stop your fighting - and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth."
Psalm 46:10
We shouldn't have to struggle as much as we do. How much of our struggling is caused by others, and how much do we bring upon ourselves? How hard do we have to fight, really? When we remember the peace that God brings - the everlasting peace of the Spirit, we know that we don't even have to fight the battle of good vs. evil any more. Let Jesus do the hard work. Learn to be as gentle as the lamb, who follows obediently without question, who never fights back when attacked by the most ravenous wolves, who trusts his master to rescue him and bring him home.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, still my heart and calm my spirit. Soothe my anger and wash away my pain. Pacify my thoughts, words, and deeds so that I may become a lamb worthy of Your sacrifice. Amen.
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