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But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.
1 Thessalonians 2:7 NKJV
The imagery in this verse is as tender as it is powerful. Paul had been tough and rough in other cities. In Thessalonica, the Apostle was gentle like a mother with her children.
Very often God’s people must be strong and tough. A significant part of the time, we must stand against the darkness, without expecting mercy or quarter. Too often, we must rebuke and chastise, even at the risk of being called harsh and judgmental.
There should be another side to Christians. God’s people should, in at least equal measure, have a deep and wide capacity for the gentle care of those around us. A steely backbone should not rule out the ability to be gentle and tender. In fact, it makes a gentle episode that much more effective.
When Paul needed an illustration of the capacity to be gentle, he did not have far to look. The nearest Mother fit the bill, nicely. No one, through the ages, would fail to understand the message.
If you are a Mother, (continue to) live up to the press releases and greeting cards. Have the capacity to be loving and gentle. If you are a Christian, you should be able to handle saints or sinners with tender, skillful strength. If you need an example, you know where to look.
Think: Gentleness is a Christian trait. Mothers are the best example.
Pray: “Lord, help me to have, and use, gentleness.”
Copyright © May 2014, Kirk Hunt
This devotional is a ministry of https://devotionals.cadremenpress.com.