God’s Diplomats: Conduct Code (Gentleness)

A gentle tongue is a tree of life.

Proverbs 3:4 (ESV)

Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Matthew 11:29 (ESV)

We were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.

1 Thessalonians 2:7 (ESV)

Strong men are gentle, and God is the Ultimate Gentleman. As Christ’s ambassadors in a hard world, your gentleness is a beacon of light. Let’s explore what gentleness might look like:

  • Is it a tender heart growing in God?

  • Is it a soft word soothing hurt feelings?

  • Is it a warm hand lifting a stranger?

  • Is it a kind eye, seeing life with hope?

  • Is it peaceful power, calming a storm?

  • Is it Christ Himself, easing our burdens?

  • Is it the nursing love our Father gives?

Should our gentleness with other people reflect our Savior’s gentleness with us? Of course! His golden standard must be our benchmark, our goal.

When we fumble (because everyone does), we reach up (that’s where the TLC ‘ball’ is found). We hold it firmly and move straight ahead.

Here’s my big concern: When we self-identify as Christians…but act in hateful and hard-hearted ways, we misrepresent our Savior. Couldn’t that be called the worst act of all? 

Actors, models, and talent for Christ: You’re called to lead, so lift up God’s standard: ‘Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near’ (Philippians 4:5).

God’s Diplomats: Conduct Code, Gentleness (Part 11)

Carey Arban