Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #22 — Gentleness

Picture: Counsel #22 — Gentleness CI 151.1

What if true masculinity isn’t about proving strength, but about choosing gentleness when you could choose force instead? Throughout Scripture, we see that the men who walked closely with God were not only courageous and wise, but they were also tenderhearted. CI 151.2

Joseph, betrayed and sold by his brothers, didn’t seek revenge when they stood before him years later. Instead, he wept, embraced them, and offered grace. King David, though a mighty warrior, often poured out his heart in psalms of vulnerability, humility, and longing for God. These weren’t signs of weakness. They were signs of spiritual strength grounded in love. Then there’s Jesus - the clearest Example. He didn’t dominate people with His power, but instead healed the sick with compassion, welcomed children, and loved tenderly. His masculinity was never about harsh control, but about holy care. God calls men to that same balance: to lead with integrity, and to love with gentleness. The goal for all men is to be strong enough to protect and humble enough to serve. Tenderness is not a liability. It’s part of godly manhood.^[166] CI 151.3

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Philippians 4:5 NIV CI 151.4

“We want a spirit of gentleness. We cannot live right in the family circle without it.” Ellen White in My Life Today, p. 53 CI 151.5

Reflect: Where in your life can you choose gentleness today instead of control? CI 151.6