The Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness (Kindness) – A Compassionate and Considerate Heart Toward Others
- Claimed By Him
- Apr 15
- 2 min read
One of the biggest shifts for me happened when I started asking God to help me see people the way He sees them. That includes the people who frustrate me, disappoint me, or challenge me. It's easy to show kindness to those who love us, but what about those who stretch us?
Lisa, are you only gentle with people who are gentle with you?
That question from the Lord lingered in my heart. I knew I was being called to something deeper. Real kindness isn’t conditional. It’s rooted in love, not performance.
The Power of a Soft Response
Gentleness diffuses tension. It shows up in how we speak to our kids when they test our patience, how we talk to strangers who misunderstand us, or how we treat ourselves when we fall short.
I’ve learned to extend gentleness to myself, too. That’s a hard one. We can be our harshest critics. But if God speaks to me with tenderness, why should I speak to myself with condemnation?
In Quieting the Noise, I share about the importance of checking our heart posture. That’s where gentleness begins. When we quiet the chaos in our minds, we can better recognize the ways we’re being called to show compassion—to ourselves and to others.
Practical Ways to Grow in Gentleness
If you're like me and still learning how to walk in this fruit daily, here are a few simple practices that help:
Pause Before RespondingA gentle spirit slows down before reacting. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words.
Speak EncouragementUse your words to uplift. Even a simple compliment or thank-you can brighten someone’s day.
Look for Opportunities to ServeGentleness often expresses itself through quiet acts of love—checking on a friend, helping a neighbor, or simply listening.
Forgive QuicklyHolding grudges hardens the heart. Gentleness allows for grace.
Be Kind to YourselfTalk to yourself like someone God dearly loves—because He does.
Reflection Questions
Are your words and actions clothed in kindness?
Who in your life could benefit from a little more gentleness?
Have you been as compassionate toward yourself as God is toward you?
Final Thoughts
In a world that often glorifies power and pride, gentleness stands out. It’s quiet but commanding. It changes atmospheres. And it’s a clear sign that the Holy Spirit is at work within us.
As I continue this journey of transformation, I’m learning that kindness isn’t something we keep to ourselves—it’s something we pour out, day by day, even when it’s hard.
📖 In Quieting the Noise: From My Head to My Heart, I go deeper into how God used challenging seasons to teach me the power of a gentle heart. I believe He can do the same for you.
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