Passage of the Day:
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”[a] 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope, Romans 15:1-4.
Reflection:
If you are a man, being gentle often results in negative stereotypes. The most common label attached to gentle Christians is that they are pushovers. Perhaps, the context of gentle in the Bible is simply misunderstood. If you are in a position of leadership like the apostle Paul, be gentle in the form of a genuine fruit of the Spirit. While you may be tempted to use a position of authority to tear down others, be gentle but not weak.
Prayerful Action:
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone, Titus 3:1-2.
Preparing Your Field to Bear Spiritual Fruit:
I’ve been blessed to be part of some amazing churches over the past 30 years. Subsequently, when I attend or visit a church that is stuck in tradition, I try to be gentle but not weak. When opportunities arise to share my previous experiences at megachurches, I openly share specific ministries that have impacted my life. Perhaps, I come across as “been there done that.” Therefore, as the apostle Paul adds gentleness to the list of God’s spiritual fruits, I need to work on being gentler and humbler in the presence of young Christians.
Song of the Day:
As a former fan of U2, the Violet Burning provides amazing lyrics with their classic sound of the 1980’s. As you strive to live out the fruits of the Spirit in June, may you come to terms with God’s agape love, gentle and patient with fellow believers.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 