“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Scripture reading: Colossians 3:1-17
The Greek word for “gentleness” (prautes) in Galatians 5’s fruit of the Spirit is often translated “meekness” as in our Colossians 3 passage today. It is the same word Jesus used in the Sermon on the Mount when He said, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:5). It is also the same word He used for Himself when He said, “…Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle (or meek) and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:29).
Some might mistakenly identify meekness with weakness, but that is far from the truth. In fact, one might better say that meekness is “power under control.” It does indeed include gentleness, but it is more. It is used in the New Testament to describe the ability to submit, having a teachable spirit, and having consideration of others.
The meek / gentle person is not violent, nor has outbursts of anger. In I Timothy 3, Paul says that one qualification for elders in the church is that they are not violent, but gentle (v. 3).
Do you see this fruit in yourself? Are you gentle with others? Paul tells us to “put on” this gentleness and meekness like a garment. And we rejoice that the Holy Spirit is at work in us, smoothing our rough edges and making us gentle. He is conforming us into the image of Christ, who was “gentle and lowly in heart.”
Suggestions for prayer
Pray that the Holy Spirit will increase the fruit of gentleness in you. Confess when you have been needlessly harsh and lacking in gentleness.
Rev. Derrick Vander Meulen was born and raised in California and has been an ordained minister of the Gospel for nearly 33 years. He is now serving as pastor of Coram Deo Reformation Church (URC) near Denver, Colorado. He is also the General Editor of the Trinity Psalter Hymnal. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.
