James exhorted. . .
“(17) But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17 ESV)
The Greek word translated “gentle” here is “epiekes” (“epi” is intensive and “eikos” is “reasonable”) and has been translated as “gentleness” or “sweet reasonableness”. Living in a very “Me! Me!” oriented society, so absorbed in personal desires others tend to be treated brutally and unreasonably. Some wouldn’t give another the time of day. Even simple politeness is often absent from interaction with others. And this neglect of gentle consideration for others is not only found in society at large, in schools, and in the workplace, but also within homes and at times even within the church. How often does the world seem unreasonable rather than gentle?
Heavenly wisdom leads us to give thought to the needs of others even beyond our own. (note Philippians 2:3-4) It is wisdom which at times sets the rights of self aside rather than insisting upon them, and so compels actions beneficial to others.
Consider the example of Paul who was willing to “endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 9:12 ESV) He set his own personal rights aside as he gently ministered to the church at Corinth. (1 Corinthians 9:13-15) Paul even stated he made himself “a servant to all” in order to win as many as possible. (1 Corinthians 9:19 ESV) Whatever it took in reaching out to others, that was Paul’s approach.
Wisdom that draws us into kindly serving others to the glory of God is gentle and patient with them rather than overbearing. It is the wisdom of gently speaking the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15)
In his letter to Christians at Rome, Paul urged. . .
“(10) Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10 ESV)
Such is the wisdom of gentle consideration of one another! As God sent His Son to give His life for us, He did so out of consideration of our greatest need. Every command of God has been extended with our utmost benefit in mind. Therefore, let us guard against getting so caught up in our own life that we forget the needs of those around us. With the cares and needs of others in mind, our gentle interactions open the door for godly wisdom to powerfully impact lives. May we accept that high calling to the glory of God!
Have a great day SEEING OTHERS WITH GOD’S EYES!
Carl
