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Gentleness, or meekness, is a divinely balanced virtue that only the Holy Spirit can operate in our lives.

Interestingly, Luther translated the Greek word praytes in German as sanftmut; “sanft” means gentle, and “mut” is courage. We need the Holy Spirit in order to bring gentleness and courage together in our own lives.

We all know gentle people, and we all know courageous people. But in order to live out both virtues in our lives, we need to pray for the intervention of the Holy Spirit. We need help to follow our King and Savior, who is gentle and humble.

Matthew 11:29 instructs us: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (NIV). By His Holy Spirit, Christ cultivates that same quality in us to make a difference in a harsh and violent world.

Video: The Power of God’s Gentleness

Gentleness is power under control, and in a harsh and hurting world, it can help heal. Jesus was our example; He had a gentle spirit and yet spoke courageously as He encountered an unrighteous world.


Watch Volker Heitz’s video.

Prayer Points

  • Let us pray for gentle hearts in our dealings and in our churches.
  • Pray for balance in your life between gentleness and courage. Pray for a gentle spirit when we are challenged or attacked.
  • Pray for courage to stand up against unrighteousness and mockery.
  • Pray for our brothers and sisters who are persecuted.

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is the national leader of The Foursquare Church in Switzerland.
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