Benefits of Gentleness

As we wrap up on discussing the fruit of the Holy Spirit of gentleness discussed in Galatians 5, I want to highlight three benefits that go hand-in-hand with demonstrating the gentle Spirit of Jesus to others.

1-Divine gentleness neutralizes hostile criticism.

The world would say "kill 'em with kindness". Jesus would say, "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:4). Why? Because when we shower those who persecute/oppose us with undeserved gentleness and kindness, we will "heap burning coals on (their) head" (Romans 12:20). This phrase, pulled from an ancient Proverb, indicates that when hostility and opposition--especially by way of harsh criticism, false accusations, and persecution--is met with unwarranted gentleness and kindness, the person inflicting harm might just heap a burning sense of shame and conviction in their conscience, changing their heart posture and hopefully leading them to consider the way of Christ instead.

2- Divine gentleness breaks down barriers.

As followers of Christ, there are many barriers that we encounter from the world, that can prevent authentic relationships from forming, and ultimately, prevent the seed of the gospel from planting in a person's heart. These barriers may be founded upon past hurts, misunderstandings, and even false beliefs or perceptions about others. The radical gentleness of Christ can slowly, or even quickly, begin to remove those barriers, stone by stone, until ultimately softening a person's heart to receive the love of God through Christ.

3- Divine gentleness paves way for the gospel.

The world says "A person doesn't care how much you know until they know how much you care." Scripture says that even if a person speaks through heavenly wisdom (or in tongues), if they don't do so in love then all they are is "a noisy gong or clanging cymbal" (1 Corinthians 13:1). Too often in the religious world, people try to shove the good news gospel in people's faces, but through harsh spirits of argumentative and condescending attitudes. This kills the joy of the gospel and can sever a bridge. But when the radical gentleness of Christ through the indwelling Holy Spirit accompanies the good news gospel, it can pave the way for the gospel to take root in a person's heart.

All of these benefits can be summed up in one statement, "Overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21).  That is what the radical gentleness of Jesus through the indwelling Holy Spirit allows us to do as we engage with those who mean harm against us, or at the least, with those who oppose the gospel of Jesus in us.