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Fruit of the Spirit - Gentleness - Weekly Devotional
This week's focus: Gentleness
The word Paul uses for “gentleness” in Galatians 5:22-23 is prautes, which has the same root as the word Jesus uses to describe those who will inherit the earth in Matthew 5. It’s usually translated as “meek,” “mild,” or “gentle.” But Strong’s Greek Concordance says that the word “refers to exercising God’s strength under His control, demonstrating power without undue harshness. The English term ‘meek’ often lacks this blend of gentleness (reserve) and strength.”
Reserve and strength. Power and control. These are not words that come to mind when we think of gentleness.
Gentleness is not a relinquishing of strength. On the contrary, the Spirit is powerful, and we are given access to that power. Gentleness, meekness—prautes—is recognizing that we are not the source of power, but the instrument of it. We are not to wield that power harshly or without purpose.
Matthew 11:29 (NKJV)
"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Prayer Points:
- Pray that we would be Christ-like in gentleness. May our hearts, our thoughts, our words, and our actions be gentle in spirit and bring others into God’s rest. Pray that, in the midst of what can be harsh and vitriolic politics, God’s people in America would be known by His gentleness.
- May is National Foster Care Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and support for the more than 500,000 children in the foster care system in the US. Read our story that features the incredible work being done through churches in the Las Vegas, NV area for the foster care community there.
We want to see God honored in America, and we pray for an unprecedented spiritual awakening.
This devotion was produced in partnership with Every Home for Christ.
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