Living on Mission – Gentleness and Identity

Living on Mission – Gentleness and Identity

“This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I am writing to God’s holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.” (Ephesians 1:1-2)

How do these verses relate to gentleness? They made me think about the tie between gentleness and identity. What if being secure in our identity and purpose enables us to walk in gentleness?

When we’re insecure, we tend to “power up” on people and go to great lengths to prove our value or that we belong. We’re always on defense, ready to protect our territory. Gentleness never does that! Gentleness says, “Hey, it’s ok if you don’t believe what I say or who I am. Your unbelief in the truth doesn’t change the truth.”

We can tell from this simple greeting that Paul has no questions about who he is or what he’s called to do. He had a purpose and he was sure of his identity (who God made him to be.) He had no reason to take a defensive stance regarding his position. He was free to declare and to operate in the grace of God with all gentleness. He wrote the book of Ephesians from a posture of gentleness.

Look at the life of Jesus for more evidence. Jesus knew exactly who He was and what He came to earth to do. He walked confidently and with gentleness – even when He was wrongly accused and crucified. (How He was able to remain gentle while being abused is beyond me. That is literally outside of the scope of my abilities!)

Are you feeling less than gentle? Spend some time discovering what God says and thinks about you. Once you get secure in your identity in Him, you’ll find that you’re able to practice gentleness.

Let’s practice Living on Mission and practice gentleness – completely secure in who we are in Him.

Pastor Angela