Gentleness | Fruits of the Spirit | Week 8

Matthew 11:29 (ESV) - 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

Background & Application - Jesus is the perfect example of gentleness. In the historical context of this verse, Jesus was speaking to a crowd in which the listeners variety of religious burdens placed on them by leaders (as referred to in Matthew 23:4 (NIV) - “they tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them”).

What does Jesus mean when He describes himself as “gentle and lowly”?

Examples of Jesus’s gentleness are on display all throughout the Gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). Take a few moments to find a story or example that demonstrates gentleness.

Reflect on your heart posture. Would your friends describe you as gentle? Why or why not? Why is gentleness an important aspect of your character as a Christian?

Dive Deeper

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) - Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect

Proverbs 15:4 (ESV) - A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit

Exodus 34:6 - a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness

Gentleness is a heart posture, and the Holy Spirit can equip you with gentleness like Jesus has. This week, dive deeper into the bible stories we brainstormed that demonstrate gentleness. What do theses stories teach you about who Jesus is? How does that impact your heart?