Let’s consider the Holy Spirit working in our lives:
The work of the Holy Spirit growing gentleness or meekness to those crucified with Christ
Gentleness or meekness is the opposite of self-assertiveness and self-interest. It stems from trusting in God’s goodness and control over the situation and your life. The gentle person is not occupied with self at all. This meekness is a work of the Holy Spirit, not of the human will; it is the one who has been crucified with Christ.
Gentleness is something that cannot be accomplished by self – nor is it merely “biological” (naturally patient or “laid back”).
Never self-effort – only by the Cross.
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (21) “I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.” (Galatians 2:20-21 NKJV)
Gentleness is the kind of attitude that DOES NOT demand “its proper respect.”
To paraphrase a quote by Spurgeon:
“What is the proper respect, which is due to poor creatures like us? I believe that if anyone of us did get our “proper respect,” we should not like it long, for we would be found wanting on the scales of justice. We desire to be flattered when we cry out for ‘proper respect.’ Respect, indeed! It is not about you. Why, if we had our “proper respect” based on our thought, words, and actions, we would find ourselves to be in the lowest hell!”
Humility and lowliness of mind, this gentleness, and meekness, of which Christ is an outstanding example and pattern. It is the Holy Spirit working in the heart of a regenerate person. It is not thinking ourselves more highly than we ought to think, but walking humbly with God, acknowledging every favor, being thankful for every blessing, and depending on his grace and behaving with modesty and humility among men.
Gentleness or meekness is to govern our passions and resentments, so as not to be easily provoked, and, when we are so, to be soon pacified,
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. (2) Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ... (12) Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; (13) bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” (Colossians 3:1-3, 12-13 NKJV)
6. How have you been “bearing with one another” (especially those in your home) with a spirit of gentleness or meekness? Do you have a forgiving attitude, or do you hold a grudge?
Log in / create an account to enroll or continue where you left off.