Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. (Philippians 4:5)
What do you want to be known for? What image do you try to present to the people around you? Strong. Poised. Courageous. Independent. Smart. Those are traits we value highly, aren’t they? It seems like the biggest compliment you can give someone today is to call them “strong and independent.”
How about this: Gentle. Have you ever prayed to God, “Lord, help me be gentle”? Have you ever strived for gentleness in your life? Of course not. That sounds weak and wimpy. “Gentleness? Who wants that?”
God does. Here’s what the Bible encourages, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near” (Philippians 4:5). Did you catch the trait God values? “Gentleness.” What? That’s the opposite of what we often strive to be. But that’s exactly who Jesus is: Gentle. Jesus had compassion on everybody. He mourned with those who mourned. He comforted those who were sick. And then he let himself be led like a lamb to the slaughter, without putting up a fight. He died for you and me without even opening his mouth to complain. Jesus is our gentle Savior who is always near to us with his forgiveness and love.
So strive for gentleness, because “the Lord is near.” Strength doesn’t actually come from you. It comes from Jesus. Independence? Give me a break. We depend completely on God’s grace very single day. Concerned about injustice? Jesus’ great Judgment Day is right around the corner. He will right every wrong. Do you believe that? Do you truly believe that “the Lord is near”?
Then you don’t have to have your way. Then you don’t have to always be the one in charge. You don’t have to get the last word. You don’t have to receive all the attention. You’re able to put up with mistreatment without hatred or anger. You’re able to submit to others without resentment. You trust in God for everything. You have a source of insurmountable strength on the inside. What word could you use to describe all that? Gentleness. Gentleness that can only come from Jesus.
Dear Christian, let other people be strong. Let other people be independent. Let other people show off their poise. Instead, “let your gentleness be evident to all” today, because “the Lord is near.” Let’s strive for gentleness, just like Jesus our Savior did.
Dear Jesus, we get confused about what’s truly important in life. We strive for strength or influence or popularity. Forgive us for such foolishness. Help us strive for gentleness, just like you our gentle Savior. In your name, amen.
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