Spirit of Gentleness

Year 6-Day 24:Today, I am grateful the corrective and restorative power of the "spirit of gentleness".

Most of us aren't perfect. Most of us live, work, worship and wander with people who aren't perfect. Relationships are complicated. 

Jesus tried to teach us the secret to relationship success, but we forget or get distracted. He told us... in my very paraphrased version... "Love God... like crazy. Love people like crazy. Do this and everything else falls into place." It changes the longings of our hearts. If I am granted another 30 years, I will still need correction and improvement. 

Why is it that transgression of another makes us feel a little superior. That is the raw, honest truth. We all have different struggles. What is easy for one, is another's daily cross to bear. Our uniqueness as individuals is a delight to our Father as much as our struggles break his heart. 

This verse uses the phrase "in a spirit of gentleness". That is how we are instructed to walk with brothers and sisters who are struggling. My tongue can be quick and sharp. My love of words that can be so helpful to articulate a thought, can also pierce and wound another's heart. Words can, also, be loving and gentle. They are the better choice.

"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." 
-Galatians 6:1-2 

Did you know that "The Spirit of Correctiveness" is not one of the Fruits of the Spirit? I know... kind of disappointing, right? It is easy to judge and correct those who are already struggling. Yet, don't we all struggle sometimes? 

We are to walk together and help carry each other's burdens. We can gently guide, suggest and correct without acting superior or being ugly. When I have a struggle, I am grateful for those who stick by my side until I can press through the trial... whatever it may be. 

Today, I am grateful the corrective and restorative power of the "spirit of gentleness".