Gentleness in a Time of Intensity

October 25, 2020

Week 6 : Gentleness in a Time of Intensity

The apostle Paul wrote the verses we have been reading in Galatians because he had introduced the Galatians to Jesus and Jesus had changed their lives. Not long after a group of religious people came along and confused them by introducing the ideas of legalism (essentially that they needed to follow more rules and try harder to earn God’s favor). In chapter 5 of the book of Galatians, Paul told them the opposite: that human effort would only produce human results. Human effort actually produces the works of the flesh. If you want to know what happens when you lead your own life, read Gal 5:19-21

However, as we have spent the last several weeks discussing, we believe there is a better way. It’s a way in which the Spirit leads us to a more significant life. As a matter of fact, if you’re not a follower of Jesus & you want to know what God wants to do in your life, this is it.The Holy Spirit produces in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self- control.  Today, we are going to talk about what it means to have gentleness in a time of intensity!

Start Talking

  1. Who is a TV or Movie character you would describe as “Intense”? Tell us why! 
  2. Conversely, who is a TV or Movie character you would describe as gentle?
  3. Who is a real life person that you think demonstrates gentleness? How does being around them impact you?

Think about it

  1. Is gentleness something that comes easily to you?
  2. While understanding the Holy Spirit can be confusing, if you have placed your faith in Jesus, then you have experienced Him. Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit in any of these ways? Tell us about it. 
  • His comfort when I’m hurting or overwhelmed. 
  • His direction when I need to make a decision.
  •  His conviction when I’ve blown it.
  • His peace when I’m scared.
  • His rich joy when things are good. His reassurance that I belong to Him.
  1. Why is it difficult for some of us to display gentleness?

Look it Up

  • Who does the Bible say needs gentleness in each of these passages?
    1. Read 1 Timothy 6:9-11
    2. Read 1 Peter 3:3-5
    3. Read Colossians 3:12-14
  • Additional Verses on Understanding the Holy Spirit:

When we trust in Jesus as Savior, the New Testament describes the Holy Spirit as:

 • The life of Jesus in us – Romans 8:10

• The seal that guarantees we belong to God – Ephesians 1:13

When the NT talks about His role in our lives, it says things like:

• Helper or Comforter – John 14:16 

• Convicts us of sin – John 16:7

• Empowers us – Acts 1:8

• Source of wisdom & revelation – 1 Corinthians  2:10 

• He gives us spiritual gifts – 1 Corinthians 12:4

• Prays for us – Romans 8:26

What Now?

  1. What do you need to do this week to take a step towards having more gentleness in your life? 
    1. Ask someone close to you what it’s like on the other side of you in regards to gentleness
    2. Memorize one of the verses above
    3. Invest in counseling
    4. Ask God to help you have a greater understanding of His gentleness towards you
  2. Perhaps you consider yourself to be gentle in nature. What steps do you need to take this week to walk in greater truth telling or honesty?
  3. Something to think about this week:

A prayer for  this week: 

If you struggle with gentleness: Holy Spirit guide my life and make me gentle. 

If you’re already gentle:  Holy Spirit make me honest.

Additional Series Resources: