But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV)
Gentleness: expresses power with reserve, gentle strength
Gentle, meek, mild refer to an absence of bad temper or belligerence. Gentle has reference especially to disposition and behavior, and often suggests a deliberate or voluntary kindness or forbearance in dealing with others. (www.dictionary.com/browse/gentleness?s=t)
Power with reserve. I like that description. Gentleness doesn't mean we lie down and ignore the wrong in a situation. Rather, we show love and compassion in the midst of a difficult situation.
Too often we approach situations with the POWER and forget the reserve. We go with full strength and forget the gentle.
In order to have the right balance of power and reserve, it begins with what God prefers (love), grace recognized (joy), God's gift of wholeness (peace), and attitude of uncomplaining (longsuffering), kindness (favorable attitude — that is serviceable), goodness (beyond being good — doing good), and faithfulness — character of dependability.
Power with reserve. I wonder how different our world would be if we all exercised a bit of gentleness. I wonder how different my life would be if I showed more gentleness to those around me.
Power with reserve. Gentle strength. Forbearance in dealing with others.
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