But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. James 3:17
“The power of gentleness and kindness is always irresistible.”
Henry Martyn in Day’s Collacon, compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 320.
I arrived home yesterday afternoon in a snowstorm. It broke just before sunset when I shot this photo at our townhouse. This morning I am giving thanks for the way that the wisdom from above transforms our lives.
It leads us to be pure, which in antiquity is to reflect integrity or consistent faithful living. It makes us friendly and gentle. We also become sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere.
What Martyn adds with his comment is the fact that the power of gentleness and kindness is irresistible. He’s right, isn’t he? Just think of the impact that gentle and kind people have on you.
Now think of a person you have difficulty interacting with. They are easy to resist. But what if you asked God to help you extend gentleness and kindness toward them by the power of the Holy Spirit at work in you?
Add gentleness and kindness to your generosity. You will deeply touch the hearts of those that God leads you to serve. Some of them might be difficult souls, and the power of these traits is irresistible.