Living Hope: Gentleness is not Weakness

Gentleness is not Weakness

Strong's Greek: 4240. πραΰτης (prautés) -- Gentleness, meekness

Gentleness or meekness (Strong’s 4240) expresses interior strength under Holy Spirit control. Far from timidity, it is the poised disposition that gladly submits to God’s will and channels power …[1]

Strong's Greek: 769. ἀσθένεια (astheneia) -- Weakness, infirmity, …

The contexts show three primary spheres: (1) physical infirmity, (2) inner weakness that …[2]

Jesus was both gentle and strong in His relationships with people around Him; Matt 21:1-17.

The works of the flesh seem overwhelming in us and around us. This will be conquered only by the power of Christ residing within us. God is good enough and big enough to change situation, with the fruit of the Spirit. Only the fruit of the Spirit conquer the works of the flesh.

The coming of Christ was described by the prophet Zechariah as:

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass (Zechariah 9:9).

When Christ came as a baby, it was in his meekness, and not in his majesty.

[1.His temper is very mild. He comes not in wrath to take vengeance, but in mercy to work salvation. He is meek to suffer the greatest injuries and indignities for Sion’s cause, meek to bear with the follies and unkindness of Sion’s own children. He is easy of access, easy to be entreated. He is meek not only as a Teacher, but as a Ruler; he rules by love. His government is mild and gentle, and his laws not written in the blood of his subjects, but in his own. His yoke is easy.

2.The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the two main hinges upon which the door of salvation turns.

He came into the world on purpose to give his life a ransom (Matthew 20:28). The history of His sufferings, death, and rising again are recorded by all the evangelists. Emmanuel, “God with us” in His extensive state of humiliation, was riding on a donkey.] – Matthew Henry.

From a neuroscience perspective, gentleness activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest, recovery, and healing. On the other hand, criticism, aggression, and self-judgment activate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering a stress response (fight-or-flight). This stress response increases cortisol, a hormone linked with anxiety, inflammation, and long-term health issues.[3]

Practicing gentleness, deep breathing, or mindful touch can trigger the release of oxytocin (the bonding hormone), helping us feel safe, connected, and at peace. A good example is the how a mother comforts her crying baby!

Personally I like the following definition for Gentleness:

Gentleness, listed among the qualities described as the “fruit of the Spirit,” represents a disposition of humility, mildness, and patience that flows from a heart transformed by divine grace (Galatians 5:22-23). The Greek term often translated as “gentleness” (πραΰτης / prautēs) carries connotations of controlled strength-an intentional restraint that protects and cares for others rather than asserting self-interest.[4]

When we are told that we are singularly free from pride, we feel as proud as Lucifer himself at the consciousness that the compliment is right well deserved. We are so experienced, so solid, so discerning, so free from self-confidence, that we are the first to be caught in the net of self-satisfaction. Brethren, we must pray God to make us humble.” (Spurgeon)

A gentle spirit can be contrasted with arrogance or oppression, and underscoring others. The inner meekness in a person often aligns with both divine wisdom and fosters deeper spiritual walk with our Maker!

Gentleness mostly flows as a natural outworking of the Spirit’s presence in the believer’s life. The beautiful thing is gentleness emerges in real-life settings; especially in turbulent times. When one chooses consideration and calmness over harshness and reacting violently. This is helpful in management settings, and it becomes visible in conflict resolution, correction, and leading. Leading gently has power over everyday difficult interactions.

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger; Prov. 15: 1.

Think about this: How about giving all? Our heart, brain, and thought process, mind, intellect, emotions, will, to Jesus Christ? Asking Him to take control and rule! The choice is ours, and He is able to use it for His glory.