There are 26 different character traits that I focus on as I pursue Christ-like maturity for myself. I was strong in some of them early because of my parents’ training, such as diligence. I am still weak in some of them, but I am working on them diligently. I think that my weakest character trait is gentleness, and most people who know me well would agree. I know my wife does. Several character traits are mentioned in the Bible that have a lot of blessings from God attached to them, and gentleness is right at the top. God loves gentleness and uses and rewards those strong in this character trait.  Gentleness is one of the two character traits mentioned that Jesus had. Many men are probably weak in this character trait because it seems feminine or weak. The King James word for gentleness is meekness, which sounds like weakness.

A significant requirement by God for those He would use as leaders is gentleness. Not many of our leaders in today’s world would rate very high in gentleness, however you would define it. Gentleness is influencing and persuading people with no irritation or anger. It is motivating people by honoring them. It is recognizing that we all are easily hurt or offended and working hard not to do that. As Jesus defined it, gentleness is treating people as you would like to be treated. Treating people with gentleness takes great strength, self-control, confidence, and godly self-worth. I have several people in my life who are very strong in this character trait, so I have good models to follow, and I am growing slowly but steadily to be more and more gentle.