But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: I Thessalonians 2:7
Do you like babies? If you are like most girls, your answer is an enthusiastic, “Yes!” Of course you love babies! They are little and cute and so very soft! Think back to the last time you were able to hold a tiny newborn. How did you cradle that baby in your arms and speak to him? Very carefully? Probably you held the little one delicately and spoke tenderly. This is what I think of when I hear the word gentle. Gentleness is not only something we need when caring for a tiny baby, but it is an important character trait for girls, just like you, to learn.
What is gentleness? Gentleness is showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others. It is being soothing, meek, mild, and soft. It is speaking with a gentle tone of voice and greeting another person gently and not severely. In Galatians 5:22, we read that it is part of the fruit of the Spirit, so we know that gentleness is important for every Christian to learn, whether they are a man or a woman. But there is a special kind of gentleness that God gives to ladies and it is important for you to cultivate this special trait. You see, God made girls to grow up to be wives and mothers. God is preparing you to nurture your own sweet babies one day!
Also, God made girls to be especially sweet and gentle in their mannerisms and in their care for others. Yes, men need to learn gentleness because we read that Jesus was the perfect example of gentleness (II Corinthians 10:2) but there is something uniquely feminine about a woman who exudes gentleness. She is not harsh and does not speak rudely. But rather she greets others sweetly and is quick to care for the needs of others.
You can begin working on this important trait even now. Think of the way you speak to your parents. Is it sweet and gentle? Be especially careful with the way you ask them questions when they have given you a job to do. Don’t respond harshly or rudely, but rather entreat them sweetly and gently.
How about when you talk to your brothers or sisters and friends? Gentleness doesn’t automatically mean you have to speak quietly. But, if you are prone to being harsh or severe with others, a good way to begin practicing gentleness is to purposely lower your voice and answer with a quiet tone to help remind yourself not to be rude or ungentle.
Lastly, you can show gentleness in how you care for others. Offer a sweet hug or a soft touch to show a family member your tender care. When little brother falls and scrapes his knee, be the first one to give him a hug and tend to his wound. Greet daddy with a warm kiss and whisper, “I love you!” in his ear when he comes home from work! Offer mommy a word of encouragement and a pat on the arm when it looks like she is having a hard day.
Here are some verses for you to study with your mom:
Psalm 18:35
Titus 3:2
James 3:17
By your gentle words and touches, you show that you are a gentle daughter of the King, all glorious within!
Abigail strives to be a joyful wife to Scott and mother to their five blessings – Lily, Joseph, Grace, Emma, and Samuel. She enjoys homemaking, organizing, homeschooling, and bargain shopping.