# 065 01/22/01 Gentleness should be taught in three areas

Is there still a place for gentleness in this harsh world? In another harsh time, Paul, writing to the Galatians, expressed the importance of gentleness. (Galatians 5:22.)

Gentleness is consideration in the treatment of others. Paul describes gentleness in his letter to the Thessalonians “as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children.” I Thessalonians 2:7. Throughout his letters, Paul encourages Christians to be gentle. He knew that what we have to say will more likely be heard if it is delivered in a spirit of gentleness.

We want our children to learn gentleness in three areas: how they treat others physically, how they treat others emotionally and, also, how they treat things. Gentle handling of the property of others demonstrates respect for the owner. We best teach by example. Our children are keen observers of our behavior; therefore, we must be gentle with our children and other people.

Developmentally, it is best to teach gentleness from concrete to abstract or from things to emotions. A very good time to begin teaching gentleness is at the toddler stage. He should be told to “be gentle” around valued objects on a coffee table. He can be allowed to hold a certain object under your watchful eye if he holds it gently. He should be shown how to gently touch a small baby. All these actions allow him to learn the meaning of gentleness.

Later, the idea of gentle treatment can be carried over to the feelings of others. He will already understand the meaning of gentleness when you say to your teenage son, “You must be very gentle with your girlfriend’s feelings. You do not want her to think that you care for her more than you really do.”

It is very important to instill a spirit of gentleness in a child. God may want to use her to reach hurting people. Gentleness opens doors that might otherwise be closed.