Gentle

I was leaving my counselors office yesterday when she said, “Nancy — slow down”. It made me chuckle because, as you may know, I had been observing “Slow September” for a full 30 days and on October 1st I was reminded again to slow down. Another special phrase she has for me is “Nancy, you need to be more gentle with yourself.”

Gentleness is one of those words that sounds comforting but I am not sure who is really great at it. It also got me thinking that if I am not gifted in being gentle with myself, I wonder if I am too hard on those around me. In my role as mom, I strive to be loving, kind, present and supportive; however, I do not think “gentle” has been on my radar; not for myself, my girls, my family or my friendships. Gentleness is defined by Wikipedia as a strong hand with a soft touch. It is a tender, compassionate approach toward others’ weaknesses and limitations. A gentle person still speaks truth, sometimes even painful truth, but in doing so guards their tone so the truth can be well received.

This month my focus will be on gentleness. How about you? Is there anyone in your life who could benefit from a little more gentleness from you? Are you gentle with yourself? My hope is that these words today will be a sweet reminder to slow down (again) with me and gently love yourself and those around you.

Resources/Inspiration:

Facebook Group: It’s not too late to join our on-line Bible study, “Love Does” by Bob Goff. Feel free to click here for more information, videos and a link to our FB Group.

Verses:

Philippians 4:5a (ERV) “Let everyone see that you are gentle and kind.”

Proverbs 15:1 (MSG) “A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire.”

Ephesians 4:2 (ERV) “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient and accept each other with love.”

Song:

Humble and Kind by Tim McGraw

Books:

Embraced by Lysa TerKeurst (one of my all time favorite authors)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (one of my all time favorite books)