MARCH 21, Psalm 103:3-14; Galatians 5:22

Gentleness is not to be confused with weakness or a lack of resolve or determination. It is a trait of a true Christian - mildness and kindness of disposition. This is often lacking in our world, and indeed, gentleness doesn’t come naturally. Gentleness is something Christians must learn. It is a trait that is godly and, as His children, God expects us to become gentle, as He is. Becoming gentle is not easy. Sometimes gentleness comes with great difficulty and through difficult circumstances.

The opposites of gentleness can be bitterness, anger, slander, malice, deceit and envy. Psalm 103:3-14 describes the gentleness of God.

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed...

The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust...

Meditate on these verses and write down God’s gentle deeds towards us in your own words. As you write, think of yourself how you can show gentleness to others. Example: God forgives, so I must forgive others who wrong me.

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Thought: Why must you be gentle to others?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, as your spiritual children, help us be kind and gentle to others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.