The Mystery of Gentleness and The Way to Love

Timeless clues?

Beloved stories unfold in my mind. First I see the roads Jesus traveled. Then, I overhear conversations with the people he touched. I imagine his smile, his voice, and his Father above. Could it be all the things Jesus said and taught were timeless clues—about the mystery of gentleness and the way to love?

Meek or weak

While most people wouldn’t appreciate the nickname weak, they probably haven’t even thought about someone describing them as meek. Would you consider that a compliment? The word of God says we should. Scripture regarding meekness refers to the meek as blessed. Meek is not weak. It’s quiet and gentle. And gentle is strong.

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Philippians 4:5 NIV

How strong is a gentle heart?

I can’t imagine the horrible pain and injustice Jesus endured nailed to a cross. He took my place and carried my sins, on his shoulders. This humble man bore yours, and the sins of all the world, even those who nailed him to that cross. And then, while hanging there, healing words of forgiveness and paradise sprang out of his parched mouth—not anguish.

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Jesus spoke life and hope to everyone he met, even the criminal hanging on a cross next to him. Above all, he asked his father to forgive them. My Savior proved once and for all—there is unexplainable strength in gentleness.

The Lord is my shepherd.

Shepherds are patient and diligent. They guide, protect, and nurture their flock, even on long, excruciating journeys. The Lord is the shepherd of His people in sickness or health, in valleys and darkest hours. That means He’s with us to the end.

But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23 ESV

I. Love. You.

At first glance, one might not see how three words, I love you, hold power to heal or hurt, nurture or destroy. However, that phrase is rooted in the person. People change. God stays the same. Have you ever wondered about God’s definition of love? I’d bet it starts with less self camouflaged in a one-letter-word and a lot more sacrifice.

The Way to Love

If Jesus lived the example of the way to love, why is it such a mysterious thing for us to figure out? He gave straightforward instructions before he went to prepare a place for us.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, gentleness, and patience.

Colossians 3:12

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

Proverbs 16:24 

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1

~ Featured image (Bible) by Jeff Jacobs 1990 ~

So . . . if gentleness is not something we can easily acquire, do you think the reward of heaven is worth the effort? Don’t forget to join the conversation here in the comments section. I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories.

Blessings and Love,

JC