The fifth of Paul's lovely list is "gentleness", coming from the Greek word KRASTOTES, and more properly should have been translated "kindness". It indicates "goodness of heart". Vines says of this word: “used of "goodness of heart, kindness," is translated "kindness" in 2 Cor. 6:6; Gal. 5:22, RV (AV, "gentleness"); Eph. 2:7; Col. 3:12; Titus 3:4.” ("http://www.menfak.no/bibelprog/vines.pl?word=kindness"). It is translated "kindness" in reference to the disposition of God toward the world: "That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness through Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 2:7). Do we endeavor to “feel” toward the world as God “feels” toward us? This fruit will move us to esteem the world as God esteems us. He sets for us, as it were, the example in this, and the test is simple: Think concerning the world and their spiritual needs as God has thought concerning us and our spiritual needs. When we see others violating the Will of God, what do we do? Do we endeavor to teach them the proper way to act? Do we urge them to consider the will of God? This word moves us to do that very thing.
This word was employed to indicate the motive of God in sending Jesus Christ to save us, and indeed it's meaning is personified in Christ: "But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared..." (Titus 3:4). One bearing this portion of the Spirits’ Fruit would act toward others as God acted toward the world in sending His Son to die on the cross for us. When our actions are viewed in that light prior to engaging in them it helps us to make decisions that reflect favorably on the Lord’s church and us as members of it. Though for the moment it may seem very difficult to refrain from behavior that violates propriety (as determined by the Lord’s Word), it is much easier to refrain than it is to retract! Once a deed is done it is usually impossible (from the human standpoint) to “undo” it. Are we treating others, then, as God treated us? If not, whatever it is we are considering should be rejected.
It characterizes all who would be faithful followers of the Lord: "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering" (Colossians 3:12). This, then, is a part of the adornment Christ provides His faithful. We should wear this “kindness” (gentleness) just as we “wear” clothing. Does this fruit of the Spirit have a place in your life? Taken from DEFENDER: "http://www.bellviewcoc.com/Defender-1996/def1-96.htm" Tim Smith 1272 Enon Rd. Webb, AL 36376 (334) 899-8131
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