This might automatically bother some of you because of the connotations of those ideas in most circles. First things first, let’s stroll down
Word Study Way & find out what these terms mean in context, and reflect on whether they actually deserve their bad reputation, or if we need to be transformed still more by the renewing of our minds so that we can see them for the positive things they actually are. Then, we will examine whether meekness or gentleness can rightly be seen as aspects of Love that we are called to grow in as maturing children of God.
Alright, so what is it to be meek or gentle, here? Why does Paul include this in the fruit of the Spirit? The Greek term is Prauntes, which speaks to balancing strength while not overwhelming others through the way you relate to them… this is related to Fathers not being overbearing or exasperating toward your kids when disciplining them (Ephesians 5).
This flies in the face of human “might makes right” thought processes, and echoes the relational ethic of Jesus, who taught that the meek will inherit the earth.
So then, what is it to be meek? It is using strength with restraint, rather than simply exerting dominance or personal rights through Force. This is upside down From how most people operate and could be seen as weakness or a recipe for being taken advantage of, thus the bad connotation that this word has. True meekness & gentleness are hallmarks of beloved children of God who know that they have a good Father who will take care of them, no matter what. Is that really such a negative thing?
OK, so how does this restrained strength relate to love? Love does not bash others over the head with its strength… it applies it judiciously, and never with intent to harm the object of love. love is meek, not weak. Love can a will throw down with any enemy who threatens the beloved. Love’s strength, when applied toward the beloved, Must be tempered with patience & kindness.
Holy Spirit,
come teach us how to be meek, not weak.
Show us how vengeance belongs to you when someone hurts one of your kids. Help us to let go of our desire for revenge.
Teach us gentleness today as we press into you. In Jesus’ name

Amen.