Fresh Fruit: Gentleness

Fresh Fruit: Gentleness

Bible Blast: Read 1 Peter 3:14-15

The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, GENTLENESS, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23

Have you ever seen a toddler “pet” a cat? Usually, it’s more of a slapping motion causing the irritated cat to hiss and escape to an out-of-reach windowsill. If the child had been gentle, the cat would have probably liked being touched and spent a little time arching his back for a good rubbing. Instead, the cat runs, and the toddler cries.

Some Christians forget about gentleness when they share Jesus. I heard of a girl who told her friend that she was going to hell if she didn’t believe in Jesus. She could have been gentler. Maybe she could have told her friend how she feels loved by Jesus, invited her to a fun event at church, or offered to pray for her. Those would be gentle ways to share Jesus, and that is how God desires for us to share our faith.

Gentleness isn’t a weak or wimpy thing. Just because someone is gentle does not mean she’s not strong. Actually, God calls us to be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power (see Ephesians 6:10) even though we are also called to be gentle.

It’s important to tell people what you believe, and that takes a lot of strength and courage. But you need to do it with gentleness. “Even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way” (1 Peter 3:14-16).

Cats don’t like to be pushed around, and neither do people. Speak gentle words, and treat all people, unbelievers and friends and family, with respect and love. This will be much more effective in bringing them to Christ than if you try to yell or scare the truth into their hearts.

Girl Gab: Talk about how you can share the gospel of Jesus in a gentle, but truthful, way. Make a point to try to be gentle toward everyone you meet today.