The Gentle Voice of God
Galatians 5:22,23
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 humility, self control. Nothing in the law stands against such things.
Gentleness: power or strength under God’s control.
How do you hear God’s voice when you read Scripture? What tone in His voice do you hear? Is it gentle, peaceful, loving, kind and good?
Or do you hear God’s voice shaped by the world’s voices: harsh, accusing, critical, angry? Do you have negative experiences with authority figures through which you now hear God’s voice? Or do you hear through the true nature of God as revealed by the Fruit of the Spirit?
God as revealed through Jesus is gentle. And he has given us, his followers, his Spirit of gentleness to spread around a harsh and unforgiving world.
”“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.“
Matthew 11 : 28 - 29 NIV
”“Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope.”“
Matthew 12 : 18 - 21 NIV
”Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,“
1 Peter 3 : 13 - 15 NIV
