“Let your
gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.”
– Philippians
4:5
Exposition:
How would you like to be known
for? We live in a time when people want you to care more about their feelings
than their responsibility. It is not uncommon to see WhatsApp Status Update,
"Feeling Angry," "Feeling Lazy," "Feeling so
Tired," and so on. We often seek to be excused and be sympathized with our
sins. Besides, vulgar expressions are considered more genuine and more
convincing than gentle expressions. However, this verse instructs us to be
known for gentleness.
We are called to control our
emotions and be gentle with one another, not just once or twice, not only to
one or two individuals, not only in front of a camera or in a church but as our
identity, for it says, “be known to all men.” Certainly, it is easier to shout
at those who wronged us, but it is comely for a Christian to overlook in
gentleness. It is easier to demand justice and be tough when we happened to be
on the less-wrong side, it is comely for a Christian to forgive and avoid
creating a scene.
We (as individuals) have
wronged God more than all the people in the world combined can ever wrong
against us, yet God has forgiven us. He is gentle toward us evermore. We who
love God, who fear God, and who wait for His appearing do well to clothe
ourselves with gentleness as He is to us.
Personal Reflection:
·
How often have I chosen the path of humour, sarcasm, or
satire at the expense of gentleness in my speech, writing, and conduct!!??
Personal Commitment:
·
I've got to look for an option of gentleness in all tough
situations.
Prayer:
Gracious Lord, would You
please make me more gentle in all my actions as the outworking of Your gentleness
toward me! Amen!