The Fruit of the Spirit – Gentleness & Self-Control
Are you looking for the other posts in this study? Click here for the table of contents.
Chapter 9 – Gentleness
Click here to watch this week’s video on Youtube
As I got to thinking about the nature of gentleness this week, my thoughts kept circling back to Moses, a man who embodied that quality so purely. Imagine, even as voices of discontent and rebellion swirled around him, his reaction was steeped in the soothing tones of patience and grace. The weight of his responsibility was tremendous, yet he bore it with a soft hand, both in his dealings with God and the people he was appointed to lead.
This study prompts us to echo the nature of Christ, and Moses, with his meek and quiet spirit, shows us just that. The book of Numbers paints him as the meekest man on earth. Seems like humility’s the lane we walk to learn to put others first and answer with gentleness.
But let’s not confuse gentleness for weakness. It’s as sturdy a proclamation of inner strength as a solid oak, all hewn from unwavering faith in God. It’s faith that cultivates gentleness, crafting a comforting picture of unshakeable trust in God’s ways.
In our study guide this week I wrote, “Humility, submission, and lowliness of mind can only occur when the soul is triumphant over the flesh–when our desire to come first is put aside for the good of another.” We see that in Exodus 32, where the story of the golden calf unfolds. Moses was up on Mount Sinai, receiving God’s law. Meanwhile, the Israelites, impatient and restless called on Aaron to fashion them a god they could see and worship. When Moses came down and saw this disrespect, he could’ve let anger get the better of him. Yet, he turned to God, pleading for their forgiveness, despite their quick desertion of His commands. As we read the account in Exodus, it’s important to remember that their punishment wasn’t simply a knee-jerk reaction from Moses, but rather a reflection of the serious breach of their covenant with God, a violation that necessitated grave consequences.
In saying, “But now, please forgive their sin–but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” (Exodus 32:32, NIV), He was prepared to sacrifice his own place in God’s plan if it meant his people would be spared. Despite their waywardness and ingratitude, Moses put their needs above his own, leaving us with an example of humility and gentleness that mirrors Christ’s own heart.
As we mull over Moses’s life and his Christ-like gentleness, let’s strive to walk in those same footprints. Let’s reflect Christ in our doings, face challenges with patience, and learn to trust in God’s wisdom and power.
When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!
Chapter 10 – Self-Control
This week, in our study guide we’re talking about David. We all know David as a man after God’s own heart, yet, we also see a time when he stepped into temptation. It’s a part of his story that gives us pause. When David saw Bathsheba, he let desire get the better of him. Instead of turning away from temptation, he stepped further in. Ignoring his conscience, he entertained a lust that soon overtook him.
As we look at David this week, I’d also like to draw your attention to Joseph, whose response to temptation provides us with a contrasting perspective.
In Genesis chapter 39, Joseph, found himself at the crossroads of temptation as he was faced with advances from Potiphar’s wife. His decisive response echoes a steadfast and unwavering faith.
“How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9, NIV)
These stories of David and Joseph, show us two paths. Joseph’s path is lit up with the blessings that come from exercising self-control and staying true to one’s faith. David’s path, on the other hand, shows us just how far a man can fall when he lets go of the reins of self-control.
But remember this: self-control doesn’t come from gritting our teeth and clenching our fists–it comes from God. As the Bible tells us in 2 Timothy 1:7, ” For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (NIV). It’s a gift from God, just waiting for us to accept and nurture it.
As we go about our week, let’s look to Joseph as a reminder to exercise self-control, and to David as a reminder to be wary of temptation. Remember, self-control, is more than just saying ‘no’ to temptation; it’s saying ‘yes’ to God, even when the path is a difficult one to take.
When you purchase a copy of the study guide, you’re actively supporting and strengthening our ministry as we spread the empowering message of the gospel to women across the globe!
We understand that not everyone can purchase the study guide, which is why we provide a printable version exclusively for those facing financial constraints. By subscribing below, you’ll unlock access to these downloadable materials. As part of our community, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the content at your own pace. Plus, as an added treat, you’ll receive periodic devotions from Time-Warp Wife, delivered directly to your inbox. Together, we can grow in faith and discover the abundant blessings of our shared journey. Join us in spreading the empowering message of the gospel to women all around the world.