Gentleness is another virtue that is easily overlooked. Gentleness is quiet, unassuming and tender; we appreciate it when we are injured or ill or needing medical attention, but we are often too impatient to grow in gentleness. Haste, impatience and being short-tempered are the opposite of being gentle, yet these are the characteristics of modern society.
Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, came as a gentle king riding on a donkey (Matt 21:5) and described himself as ‘gentle and humble in heart’ (Matt 11:29), comparing himself to a mother hen who gathers her chicks under her wings. (Matt 23:37) It stands to reason, therefore, that his followers are urged to be gentle: as Paul says, ‘Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.’ (Eph 4:2) Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23) and we are encouraged to clothe ourselves ‘with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.’ (Col 3:12)
Gentleness is about our inner attitudes and how our faith is presented to the world. Peter told us to always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks us to give the reason for the hope we have, but reminded us to do this ‘with gentleness and respect’ (1 Pet 3:15). Timothy was urged to pursue gentleness along with righteousness, godliness, faith, love and endurance. (1 Tim 6:11) We don’t have to be obnoxious about our faith, but need to grow daily in gentleness, for it acts as a cure to ill-temper and wrath. (Prov 15:1)