Friendly persuasion ∙∙

Friendly persuasion ∙∙

Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. – 2 Corinthians 5:11

John 16:7-11

 7 But I tell you the truth, it is best for you that I go away because if I do not, the Helper will not come. If I do go away, then I will send Him to you.

 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.

 9 The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me.

 10 Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more.

 11 Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.

In the 1980s, there were five significant summit meetings between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. These meetings played a crucial role in reducing Cold War tensions and advancing nuclear disarmament efforts.

During the Moscow Summit from May 29 to June 2, 1988, President Reagan gave Gorbachev a copy of the Hollywood film “Friendly Persuasion.” Reagan suggested that Gorbachev view the film as a portrayal of the necessity and potential for finding an alternative to war in resolving differences between peoples

“Friendly Persuasion” is a 1956 American Civil War drama film produced and directed by William Wyler. The movie revolves around a Quaker family whose non-violent religious beliefs prohibit violence and war.

In the early days of the Civil War, the conflict reached the peaceful family’s home in southern Indiana in 1862. The movie delves into the dilemmas they face. Should they fight despite their commitment to nonviolence? The choice is between protecting themselves or adhering to their religious beliefs and doing nothing.

Gary Cooper portrays the head of the Quaker family. He remains true to his religious convictions. In the process, he must probe his soul. He grapples with the inner conflict between two conflicting principles: protecting his family with violence or living by his Quaker philosophy of nonviolence.

How are our points of view modified and transformed most effectively? Particularly those regarding the truth found in the Word of God.

There is no need to argue with people to try to convince them regarding the truth of the Word of God. Nor does heaping guilt and shame upon them move them to any lasting action. The Word of God is like a lion. You do not have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose, and the lion will defend itself (Charles Spurgeon).

People are generally better persuaded by the reasons they have discovered themselves than by those that have come into their minds from others (Blaise Pascal).

Friendly persuasion is employed to allow another person to come to the best conclusion for themselves based on sound reasoning and truth. You gently lead them in the direction they really want to go as truth seekers. Gentle persuasion is empathic, recognizing that the most effective prodding often aligns with the individual’s own aspirations and goals. Rather than using force or pressure, gentle persuasion involves understanding the person’s desires and aspirations and then skillfully steering them toward those ends.

2 Timothy 2:24-26

 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.

 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.

 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.

This method respects the individual’s autonomy. It involves active listening to understand their motivations and using words and actions that resonate with their values. By doing so, the person feels supported rather than manipulated, making them more likely to embrace the direction suggested. This approach is not only more respectful but can also lead to more sustainable and fulfilling outcomes, as the individual is more likely to commit to a path they genuinely want to follow. In essence, it’s about guiding rather than pushing and supporting rather than controlling, which can make all the difference in achieving long-term success.

Each child of the King is to act as a guide and lead others into a knowledge of the truth. The truth will take care of itself. The world is divided into two types of people: the children of light and the children of darkness. Each is revealed through exposure to the Word of God. The living Word of God inserts itself into the minds and hearts of people.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

REFLECT & PRAY

I would rather try to persuade a man to go along because once I have persuaded him, he will stick. If I scare him, he will stay just as long as he is scared, and then he is gone (Dwight D. Eisenhower).

Father, teach me the gentle art of friendly persuasion. You promise to gather Your sheep. It is my responsibility to voice Your call. No warfare is required.

INSIGHT

2 Corinthians 5:11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men.

Because we know and respect what the Father has said in His Word, we are motivated to persuade people. We share His ways through our lives. We should be different. As we share the truth of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ through our words and our conduct, in some mystical way, we exude a peculiar aroma that other people can somehow sense. The fragrance we effuse provokes diametrically opposed responses among people. For some, it can be very alluring; for others, it is quite repulsive.

In New Testament times, a shepherd had a distinctive call that his own sheep knew. When he called his sheep, they would come to him. The truth of the Word of God is like the voice of a shepherd seeking his sheep. The Father’s sheep are only revealed by their affirmative response to His call.

John 10:27-28

 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;

 28 and I give eternal life to them.

Paul used the word picture of incense to illustrate friendly persuasion. He compared the children of the King to incense, spreading the fragrance of the Lord Jesus Christ through their lives and work. We are the aroma of the Lord Jesus Christ. To other believers, we are the fragrance of life, but to unbelievers, we are the fragrance of death. The way we live and work can have a profound impact on the lost world around us, potentially bringing either life or death (Wiersbe).

2 Corinthians 2:14-16

 14 But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now, he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.

 15 Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing.

 16 To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?

John 16:8 And He [the Holy Spirit], when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment.

The Greek word elegcho, often translated as “convince” or “convict,” encompasses meanings such as expose, reprove, persuade, and bring to light. It involves revealing errors or proving guilt, akin to cross-examining a witness or an opponent until they acknowledge the truth of an argument.

Typically, the Holy Spirit is seen as a defense attorney for believers, but here, He acts as a prosecutor and ADA. Through friendly persuasion, the Holy Spirit reveals reality, guiding people toward objective Truth. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but not their own truth. When the Holy Spirit speaks, His opinion is Truth! He convinces people regarding objective Truth. The Holy Spirit deals with each person individually and focuses on eternal matters of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Convincing is not condemning. A convinced person stands convicted. They often experience guilt or condemnation. It may be spontaneous. But it is not part of the process.

Can a child of the King resist and disregard the work of the Holy Spirit? We have only to search the memories in our hearts, the answer is self-evident.

Hebrews 3:12 Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart . . ..

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© Dr. H 2024

A kindred spirit who genuinely cares

A kindred spirit who genuinely cares ∙

I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. – Philippians 2:20

Philippians 2:20-21

 20 I have no one else like Timothy who genuinely cares about your welfare.

 21 All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ.

The contestants in the Special Olympics are developmentally or physically disabled. But they are special in a far more critical way. They have genuine care and concern for one another. In the Special Olympics, in the 100-meter dash, the runners all start together and move together down the track shoulder-to-shoulder.

During one of these races, a young woman tripped and sprawled on the track. She was in a bit of pain and somewhat embarrassed.

The rest of the contestants moved on for a few more feet. Without any communication among themselves, they all stopped, turned around, and jogged back to their fallen friend. They picked her up and took her off the track, comforted her. Only then did they continue together, arm in arm, to the finish line. These special runners would rather finish together than win individually.

A “kindred spirit” refers to someone who shares similar interests, values, or feelings with you, creating a deep and natural connection. When someone is described as a kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare, they not only share a meaningful bond with you but also truly care and take a genuine interest in your well-being. They are empathetic, supportive, and attentive to your needs, often going out of their way to ensure you are joyful and healthy. This type of relationship is characterized by mutual understanding, trust, and a sense of camaraderie.

One and only one of Paul’s friends was just like that.

Paul composed the Book of Philippians while imprisoned in Rome. His heart was warmed by the positive reports about the believers in Philippi, and he was eager to express his gratitude and affection. He intended to dispatch a small group of fellow believers to them and sought volunteers. Only Timothy and Epaphroditus showed genuine interest. Why was this the case?

Paul had an intimate understanding of the believers in the local Roman church. He was all too aware of their nature. They were not merely self-centered; they were pathetically self-centered. They were only concerned about their own interests.

I can almost hear their complaints: “Philippi? You expect us to travel all the way to Philippi? Do you realize how far it is? We’d have to walk most of the way or perhaps take a boat for part of the journey, then walk the rest. It would be a long, arduous, costly, and scorching trip. What’s in it for us? And let’s not forget the potential dangers: lions, thieves, and robbers. Plus, there’s the risk of pirates, shipwrecks, or being stranded on Malta.”

The Romans were nothing but motorboat believers, “but, but, but, but” (as Charles Stanley so often said).

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father scrutinizes all children of the King, looking for the few special ones who are genuinely concerned with the needs of others.

Father, I long to be like Paul and Timothy and ultimately like You. I long to be “a chip off the old block.” Your block. Please make it so.

INSIGHT

Why did Timothy stand out? Through observation, learning, and spiritual growth and development, Timothy finally got his priorities straight. His life would be a life of service. He was all in! He had a singular passion for serving both Paul and the Lord Jesus Christ. He is ready to go anywhere and do anything required of him. Further, he was content being number two to Paul’s number one. He was more than willing to be in the background, working from the shadows.

Timothy’s genuine concern for the spiritual and physical well-being of others. Paul modeled this attitude in his words and actions time and time again. Timothy wanted to be just like Paul. Paul aspired to be just like the Lord Jesus Christ.

Becoming a mature, devoted servant doesn’t happen overnight. A submissive mindset must be nurtured and developed. Why? It is not natural to serve; instead, the human inclination is to be served. However, as Timothy matured, walking with the Father and working alongside Paul, “he became the kind of servant that Paul could trust, and God could bless” (Wiersbe).

Paul didn’t just describe himself and Timothy as “like-minded”; he went further, saying they were “like-souled.” All faithful servants of the King should be “like-souled.” This is one of the instances where examining the original Greek adds layers of depth, beauty, and color not seen in the English translation.

The Greek term translated as a “kindred spirit” or “like-minded” is isopsuchos. Isopsuchos is a rare poetic term that is only found once in the New Testament and once in the Septuagint (Psalms 54:14). It means “of like soul or mind.” Timothy shares a similar mindset with Paul, particularly in his genuine care for the Philippians and his pursuit of the things of Christ (Philippians 2:21) (NIGTC). It is derived from isos – equal, and psuche– soul, mind. It means to be equal in soul, sharing the same motives, character, and affections. That is, having the same mindset.

The Latin Vulgate uses the term unanimous to translate isopsuchos. In modern English, Timothy was “a chip off the old block,” with Paul as his block, just as Paul was “a chip off the old block” of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Latin Vulgate uses the term unanimous to translate isopsuchos. In modern English, Timothy was “a chip off the old block,” with Paul as his block, just as Paul was “a chip off the old block” of the Lord Jesus Christ.

One essential element of serving in the Father’s chain is a sincere concern for others’ well-being, which becomes second nature. For those who dedicate themselves to the King’s service, caring for others naturally becomes the new normal.

Serving others as Jesus Christ serves us is incredibly challenging, often involving hardships, difficulties, persecution, and even death. But the joy of being a “good and faithful servant” cannot be measured (Matthew 25:23).

Every child of the King can aspire to be “a chip off the old block,” striving to be “like-souled” with the Lord Jesus Christ.

“There were certainly hundreds of Christians in Rome (Paul greets twenty-six of them by name in Romans 16), yet not one of them was available to make the trip!” (Wiersbe).

Philippians 2:21 For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus.

In a very real sense, all of us live either in Philippians 1:21 or Philippians 2:21! (Wiersbe)

Philippians 1:21 For to me, living is Christ, and dying is gain.

Each of us has the choice of whom we live for and what our priorities are.

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© Dr. H 2024

Nowhere Man ∙∙

Nowhere Man ∙∙  

Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, regularly eating at the king’s table. Now he was lame in both feet. – 2 Samuel 9:13

1 Samuel 20:14-17

 14 [Jonathan told David] and may you treat me with the faithful love of the LORD as long as I live. But if I die,

 15 treat my family with this faithful love, even when the LORD destroys all your enemies from the face of the earth.

 16 So Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, saying, May the LORD destroy all your enemies!

 17 And Jonathan made David reaffirm his vow of friendship again, for Jonathan loved David as himself.

Nowhere Man – The Beatles, 1965

He’s a real nowhere man

Sitting in his nowhere land

Making all his nowhere plans for nobody

Doesn’t have a point of view

Knows not where he’s going to

Isn’t he a bit like you and me?

The Father is a great, merciful, and compassionate King. Showing kindness is one of the remarkable things that He does. When we display kindness to our fiercest adversaries, we reflect His divine nature. As children of the King, offering kindness to others shatters the walls of hatred and bitterness, demonstrating our allegiance to the Father and touching the hearts of those who receive it.

2 Samuel 9:3-9

 3 The king asked, “Is anyone from Saul’s family still alive? If so, I want to show God’s kindness to them.” Ziba replied, “Yes, one of Jonathan’s sons is still alive. He is crippled in both feet.”

 4 “Where is he?” the king asked. “In Lo-debar,” Ziba told him, “at the home of Makir, son of Ammiel.”

 5 So David sent for him and brought him from Makir’s home.

 6 His name was Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son and Saul’s grandson. When he came to David, he bowed low to the ground in deep respect. David said, “Greetings, Mephibosheth.” Mephibosheth replied, “I am your servant.”

 7 “Don’t be afraid!” David said. “I intend to show kindness to you because I promised your father, Jonathan. I will give you all the property that once belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will eat here with me at the king’s table!”

 8 Mephibosheth bowed respectfully and exclaimed, “Who is your servant that you should show such kindness to a dead dog like me?”

 9 Then, the king summoned Saul’s servant Ziba and said, “I have given your master’s grandson everything that belonged to Saul and his family.”

David and Mephibosheth – The Back Story

During his life, King Saul considered David his bitterest enemy and fiercest adversary. Saul relentlessly hunted him for years, seeking to kill him. Despite this animosity, David forged a deep friendship with Saul’s son, Jonathan. David promised Jonathan his unwavering kindness.

In the Ancient Near East, when new dynasties came to power, it was common practice to eliminate all potential threats by exterminating the entire family of the previous ruler. Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, was one such potential rival.

David initially held deep-seated prejudice and hatred for those who were lame and impaired (2 Samuel 5:6-8). Mephibosheth, having suffered a fall in childhood, became lame in both feet. He could hardly stand, could barely walk, and definitely could not run. Due to his disability, Mephibosheth referred to himself as a “dead dog,” considering himself an insignificant person of no account (2 Samuel 9:8).

To protect himself, Mephibosheth hid away in a remote location called Lo-debar. The Hebrew word debar means “word” or “thing,” while lo means “no.” Together, Lo-debar translates to “no word” or “nothing,” aptly describing the town as insignificant and remote – a place akin to what we might call “Podunk” in English, essentially the middle of nowhere.

Thus, Mephibosheth became the original nowhere man, living in a nowhere land, making all his nowhere plans for nobody.

REFLECT & PRAY

Our fallen human DNA often leans towards bitterness and resentment, but the Father calls us to a higher standard. He invites the children of the King to embrace gentleness and mercy, showing kindness to everyone in need.

Father, You are the essence of kindness and steadfast love. Encourage and empower me to embody Your compassion and kindness and care for those around me.

INSIGHT

Kindness is a generous attitude or action shared between individuals. It encompasses a spectrum of emotions and actions, such as love, sympathy, friendliness, patience, pleasantness, gentleness, affability, and goodness. It is reflected in our words and deeds and represents a deliberate choice rather than a mere emotional response.

Kindness is a tangible expression of grace, bringing grace to life in everyday interactions.

Jonathan once asked David for “unfailing kindness” to spare his life (1 Samuel 20:14-15). He viewed his bond with David through a spiritual lens, placing the Father at the heart of their friendship. The Father blesses us with true companionship when we most need it.

David’s kindness to Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, highlighted two of his most remarkable traits: kindness and loyalty. In Hebrew, the word hesed embodies the concept of “loyal love.” It is often translated as lovingkindness, signifying steadfast love.

David’s goodness and generosity towards Mephibosheth were pure grace, unearned by Jonathan’s son. David ensured Mephibosheth’s needs were met in Jerusalem, elevating him from obscurity to the royal court. Mephibosheth dined at the king’s table as one of David’s own sons (2 Samuel 9:1-7). David turned over all of Saul’s lands to him and ensured their cultivation.

David’s act of kindness to Mephibosheth, in honor of his promise to Jonathan, is hailed as “the greatest illustration of grace in all the Old Testament” (Swindoll).

The narrative of Mephibosheth holds profound truths just beneath the surface, drawing parallels between him and all children of the King. Mephibosheth, having fallen, was left crippled, hiding in a desolate place of stark bleakness and fearful of the king.

Similarly, due to the Fall, our hearts bear wounds and deformities. We often see ourselves as unworthy and hide from the Father who loves and cherishes us the most.

Our heavenly Father is the antithesis of Lo-debar. He is always present somewhere and everywhere, crafting incredible and extraordinary plans for all children of the King. His kindness is boundless and unfailing, reaching each of us with love and grace.

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© Dr. H 2024

Getting over stupid ∙∙  

Getting over stupid ∙∙  

To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction – Proverbs 12:1

Psalms 19:7-11

 7 The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

 8 The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.

 9 Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair.

 10 They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb.

 11 They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them.

Released in 1994, the film “Forrest Gump” introduces us to a simple yet extraordinary man from Alabama, with an I.Q. of 75. Despite his limitations, Forrest is guided by the insightful wisdom of his remarkable mother, who equips him to handle life’s challenges with grace.

Possessing an incredible ability to run like the wind, Forrest earns a spot on the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, where he shines as an All-American athlete. His journey continues as he enlists in the Army, finding himself in the thick of the Vietnam War. There, he forges deep friendships with Lieutenant Dan and Bubba. In a heroic display of courage, Forrest saves numerous fellow soldiers during combat, including Lieutenant Dan, which earns him the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor. Through these adventures, Forrest’s simplicity becomes his greatest strength, leading him through an extraordinary life filled with meaningful connections and achievements.

Inspired by Bubba’s dream, Forrest ventures into the shrimping business and is soon joined by Lieutenant Dan. Together, they become quite successful and amass significant wealth, transforming their lives. In addition to his business ventures, Forrest finds solace in running and embarks on epic journeys across the American landscape, followed by a devoted group of admirers who share in his quest for meaning.

Despite his accomplishments, Forrest can’t stop thinking about his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. His heart remains tethered to her, and he welcomes her into his life with unwavering devotion, offering her the stability and care she desperately needs. They marry and have a son, but tragically, Jenny’s life is cut short, leaving Forrest with the bittersweet task of raising their child alone.

Forrest’s life philosophy is encapsulated in the words of his mother, “Stupid is as stupid does.” This phrase became embedded in American culture and carries a more profound truth: being “stupid” is not a permanent condition. One can rise above limitations and transform one’s life by embracing and living out the wisdom found in the Word of God.

Embarking on a do-it-yourself landscaping project is a significant investment of both time and money, yet the rewards can be breathtaking, yielding vibrant results that endure for years. Choosing the right plants and trees is crucial to these endeavors. Some enthusiasts find joy in visiting local nurseries and handpicking flora, while others prefer the convenience of browsing online catalogs, selecting based on enticing images and descriptions.

One particular individual opted for the latter, spotting the perfect palm tree for his garden’s ideal spot. He ordered it, eagerly anticipating its arrival. When the package came, he was immediately puzzled by the words printed on the box: “Some assembly required.” This raised his curiosity. Upon opening it, he found not a living tree but a plastic replica of the palm he’d admired online. Shocked, he couldn’t help but declare, “This is the stupidest thing I’ve ever done.”

Recognizing our missteps is the first step to overcoming them. Wisdom, as illustrated in Psalms 19, begins with acknowledging our errors. Psalms 19 eloquently opens with a depiction of the heavens, whose silent grandeur speaks volumes without words. Yet, the Father communicates through words found in the Scriptures, offering profound, life-altering wisdom.

Psalms 19:7-9 highlights six synonyms for the law, each underscoring facets of divine guidance: instructions, decrees, commands, reverence, laws, and ordinances. In Jewish tradition, these are encapsulated in the scrolls of “the Law,”“The Torah.” Over time, the term “Law” began to encompass all of God’s revelation found in the entire Scriptures. The Hebrew word Torah means “direction,” “instruction,” or “law.” Torah comes from the Hebrew root word yarah, which means to “point,” “direct,” “throw,” or “cast.” Metaphorically, a teacher yarah (aims) arrows (instruction) to hit the target and achieve specific goals in the students’ lives.

Unlike human-authored textbooks, God’s Word is perfect and timeless. Though human languages change, necessitating new translations of the Scriptures, the Word of God never needs revision or improvement (Wiersbe)

The rewards of engaging with the Father’s truth are not only immense, they are transformative. Psalms 19:7-8 describes this wisdom as reviving the soul, infusing it with life and strength. It grants wisdom to the simple, bringing joy to the heart and illuminating the mind (UBS).

Psalms 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

A simple person is often inexperienced, ignorant, and naïve. Lacking common sense, they are easily swayed.

Embracing the Father’s word and guidance not only elevates us but also instills a sense of security and confidence. It turns missteps into growth and insight, guiding us on a path of spiritual development.

The Father God, who created the universe with His almighty power, offers to exercise that same power on our behalf to help us speak and think in a way that honors Him. He wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives (Stanley).

REFLECT & PRAY

In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it is vital to pause and contemplate the wonders of the Father’s creation and His written Word.

Father, Your truth is designed to instill wisdom, knowledge, depth, and goodness in the children of the King. Encourage me to immerse myself in Your Word, unlocking its life-giving power to provide guidance and instruction for my life.

INSIGHT

Our heavenly Father provided the Scriptures to reveal His truth, nurture our growth, and correct our missteps. The Word of God serves as the Father’s owner’s manual for the human soul, offering profound guidance.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

The Scriptures serve as a guide to instruct and equip us, ensuring that every child of the King is fully prepared and capable of facing whatever challenges the Father places in their path.

The times in which we live may not improve, but we can become better ambassadors for the Father, no matter how dark and daunting the world seems. The Father continually empowers us to be effective in fulfilling His purpose for our lives.

The Father’s will, as revealed in the wisdom of the Scriptures, is benevolent rather than dictatorial. It is not forced upon us but gently persuasive, encouraging us to choose goodness because it benefits us. His path leads to a life of fullness. Just as food nourishes the body, the Word of God revives the soul. The psalmist found joy in following the Lord’s ways, recognizing them as a source of the Lord’s (Tesh and Zorn).

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© Dr. H 2024

Gentle strength ∙∙

Gentle strength ∙∙

Let your gentleness be evident to all. – Philippians 4:5

Isaiah 40:10-11

 10 Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. He will rule with a mighty arm. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.

 11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead those that are with young.

During World War II, as the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands intensified, Anne Frank, along with her family, sought refuge in a concealed section of her father’s office building in Amsterdam. This secret annex, hidden behind a movable bookcase, became their sanctuary from the persecution and the imminent danger they faced as Jewish people in Nazi-occupied territory.

For two years, they lived in hiding, relying on the help of a few trusted individuals for survival. However, in 1944, their hiding place was betrayed, and the Gestapo arrested them. Anne and her sister Margot were later transferred to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where they tragically died just weeks before the camp was liberated.

Despite the unimaginable hardships she faced, Anne documented her experiences and innermost thoughts in her diary, which was discovered after the war. This diary, known as The Diary of a Young Girl, has since become one of the most powerful and enduring testaments to the human spirit in the face of adversity. In it, Anne wrote, “In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.”

A kind and quiet spirit, as depicted in the Bible, signifies an inner disposition characterized by humility, tranquility, and unwavering trust in the Father. It encompasses traits such as gentleness, peacefulness, patience, and a soothing, sweet temperament, reflecting a heart that remains undisturbed and unruffled. This spirit epitomizes a deep connection to unwavering faith and dependence on God, enabling one to remain composed and compassionate even in the face of adversity. It is an outward expression of inner beauty.

In Isaiah 40, the Father is portrayed as a powerful yet compassionate Shepherd. This imagery captures His dual nature – He rules with a strong arm, exemplifying His immense power while also displaying tenderness and kindness. He carries His lambs close to His heart and guides them with gentle care.

Sadly, many of the children of the King are often mired in their soulish, fleshly, worldly attitudes and viewpoints. Thus, the concept of an all-powerful King characterized by gentleness and kindness seems incongruous.

REFLECT & PRAY

As we serve the King, sometimes our most significant strength reveals a heart of gentleness to others (Dave Branon).

Father, I know I can be very rigid. It is too easy to demand my rights and seek retaliation when I am hurt or wounded by others. Please develop in me the quality of gentleness.

INSIGHT

John 1:14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.

The King of Kings and Lord of lords became a mere, mortal human being. He experienced the worst that humanity could throw at Him: injustice, insult, rejection, and betrayal, coupled with emotional and physical abuse and so much more. He was the predicted Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53. It was as though the Suffering Servant jumped out of the Old Testament prophetic scrolls and came to life.

The Lord Jesus Christ faced it all in gentle strength. He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered (1 Peter 2:23). The natural response of people when abused or threatened is to retaliate, to try to get even, to hurt in return for being hurt, to seek revenge. Instead, the Lord Jesus Christ entrusted Himself into the Father’s hands.

The Greek word translated as “entrusted,” “trusted,” and “committed” is paradidomi. Paradidomicomes from the Greek words para, meaning “to the side of, over to,” and didomi, meaning “to give.” It conveys the idea of delivering over or handing over control, relinquishing control to another. For example, he left his case in the hands of God.

1 Peter 2:21-25

 21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

 22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.

 23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.

 24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds, you are healed.

 25 Once, you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.

Gentleness represents the ultimate response of strength, naturally flowing from our close, intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Displaying gentleness reflects the courage of our beliefs, as it is driven and empowered by the Holy Spirit within us.

United with Christ, gentleness becomes our way of life and action. As the Father shapes us into His likeness, our gentleness becomes increasingly evident in our interactions with others. The Greek word praus, translated as “gentle,” “conveys  “consideration,” “meekness,” and “humility.” Gentleness denotes a “mild and friendly disposition,” which accommodates the weaknesses and failures of others without being overly self-important (BDAG). Gentleness is neither insistent on one’s own rights nor pushy, assertive, or demanding its own way (Grudem). It avoids rigid correctness and retaliation, remaining meek and mild in response to insults and wrongs. Gentleness is the high road most often taken by the spiritually mature.

Gentleness is not optional; it is a required expectation for every child of the King. Philippians 4:5 instructs, “Let your gentle spirit be known to all men.” Jesus Christ modeled and exemplified these qualities as the Good Shepherd, guiding us to embrace His loving care and, in turn, shepherd others.

Gentleness and kindness allow us to make a point without making an enemy (Our Daily Bread, March 8, 2019).

Matthew 11:28-30

 28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

 29 “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

 30 “For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

John 21:17 “Do you love me?” . . . “Feed my sheep.”

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© Dr. H 2024