The Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness

The eighth fruit of the Spirit is gentleness — 'meekness,' in the King James Version. Far from weakness, it's strength under control: a humble, considerate spirit that handles others with care. Here's a closer look.

Strength under control

Gentleness isn't weakness or timidity; it's power held in check for the good of others — like a strong horse under a gentle rein. Jesus described himself as 'meek and lowly in heart,' yet he was anything but weak. Gentleness is great strength, exercised with restraint and humility.

Considerate of others

Gentleness shows itself in a calm, considerate way of relating to people — not harsh, domineering, or quick-tempered, but patient and tender. Paul urged, 'Let your moderation be known unto all men' — a gracious, gentle bearing toward everyone we meet.

The gentleness of Christ

Our model is Jesus, who was gentle with the broken, the doubting, and the failing — never crushing a bruised reed. To grow in gentleness is to grow more like him, handling others' weaknesses and failures with the same tenderness he shows us.

Grown by the Spirit

Gentleness runs against our proud, self-assertive nature, so it's grown by the Spirit as he humbles and softens us. We cultivate it by remembering the gentleness God has shown us and letting his Spirit reshape how we treat others.

Gentleness, the fruit of the Spirit, is strength under control — a humble, considerate spirit that handles others with tenderness rather than harshness. Modelled on the gentleness of Christ, it's grown in us by the Spirit as he softens our pride. Far from weakness, it's one of the most Christlike and winsome marks of a life shaped by God.