Gentleness
Good morning, grandchildren!
I wish I were with you right now so I could give you a
great big hug and tell you how much I love you!
Today’s scripture is:
“But the Spirit gives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
— Galatians 5:22–23a (ICB)
Gentleness
This verse tells us what grows in our lives when God’s Spirit lives in us. One of those special fruits is gentleness. What is gentleness? Gentleness means being careful, calm, and kind, even when you’re strong or upset.
It’s using a soft heart and soft hands. Gentleness is not being weak. Gentleness is choosing to be loving instead of rough or rude.
Let me give you a picture to help. A quick example:
Imagine you’re holding a tiny baby bunny. You wouldn’t squeeze it or throw it around. Even though you’re bigger and stronger, you’d hold it gently so it feels safe.
That’s what gentleness looks like with people too. Gentleness can show up in lots of simple ways:
Gentle words:
Talking without yelling or being mean.
Saying things like, “I’m sorry,” or “Can I help?”
Gentle hands:
Not pushing, grabbing, or hitting.
Being careful when you play, especially with younger kids.
Gentle hearts:
Forgiving instead of staying mad.
Thinking, “How would I want someone to treat me?”
Sometimes it’s hardest to be gentle when we feel angry.
Maybe someone took your toy or said something rude.
Your body might want to shout or shove—but God’s Spirit helps you do something different.
He helps you take a breath and choose gentleness.
You can even whisper a quick prayer like:
“Jesus, help me be gentle right now.”
Why gentleness matters
When we are gentle, we show people what Jesus is like.
Jesus was strong, but He was also gentle with children, with hurting people, and even with those who were unkind to Him.
Gentleness helps others feel safe and loved—and that’s a beautiful way to shine for God.
Let’s Pray Together
Father God,
Thank You for giving us Your Spirit. Thank You that He helps us grow gentleness in our hearts. Please help us use gentle words, gentle hands, and gentle hearts today.
When we feel angry or upset, remind us to stop, breathe, and choose gentleness like Jesus.
We love You. Amen.