Theme: Gentleness is love acting kindly at all times.
Goal: To understand and demonstrate Christ-like kindness in all our relationships.
The Greek Word: Chrestotes
The word translated "gentleness" in Galatians 5:22 is the Greek word chrestotes (χρηστότης). It can also be translated as "kindness" or "goodness of heart." This word describes a disposition that is gentle, benevolent, and gracious toward others.
Word Study: Chrestotes
- Root: From chrestos meaning "useful, good, pleasant"
- Meaning: Kindness, gentleness, goodness of heart
- Character: A gracious disposition toward others
God's Kindness Toward Us
Before we can show kindness to others, we must first understand the kindness God has shown to us. His kindness is the model for our own.
Titus 3:4-5 "But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us."
God's kindness led to our salvation. It was not something we earned or deserved—it flowed from His gracious character. This same kindness is to flow through us to others.
Romans 2:4 "Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?"
Characteristics of Spirit-Produced Gentleness
1. Kindness in Speech
Our words should be seasoned with grace and kindness. A gentle answer can turn away anger and open hearts to the gospel.
Proverbs 15:1 "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."
Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
2. Kindness in Action
True gentleness is demonstrated not just in words but in deeds. We are called to actively show kindness to others.
Ephesians 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
3. Kindness to All
Spirit-produced kindness extends to everyone—not just those who are kind to us, but also to those who are difficult or even hostile.
Luke 6:35 "But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil."
Kindness vs. Worldly Niceness
There is a difference between the world's concept of "being nice" and the Spirit's fruit of gentleness:
- Worldly niceness is often motivated by self-interest, social convention, or a desire to be liked.
- Spirit-produced kindness flows from a transformed heart, is motivated by love for God and others, and seeks the genuine good of the other person—even when it's costly.
True kindness may sometimes involve speaking difficult truths in love, or serving in ways that go unnoticed and unrewarded by the world.
Practical Applications
Ways to Cultivate Gentleness
- Meditate on God's kindness to you—let His grace overflow to others.
- Speak words of encouragement daily—build others up.
- Look for practical ways to serve those around you.
- Be patient with difficult people—remember God's patience with you.
- Forgive readily—holding grudges hardens the heart.
Conclusion
Gentleness, or kindness, is love in action. It is the natural outflow of a heart that has experienced God's kindness and is being transformed by the Holy Spirit. As we walk in the Spirit, He produces this beautiful fruit in us—kindness that reflects the character of Christ to a watching world.
Micah 6:8 "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"