I have come to the conclusion that the Fruit that is missing from my tree is gentleness so Galatians 6 is riveting to my soul. So I might ask you to examine your fruit tree and see if you are missing something as I am. My gentle bough is barren and the wise and prudent Pruner of my soul is doing His job of pruning that I might produce much fruit not just any fruit. Right now he is working on my bough which is supposed to bear gentleness.

As I come to the end the book of Galatians it is with a grateful heart that I hear Paul tell me how to deal with those who are seeking to undermine my freedom in Christ. He speaks as a tender parent to his children. He includes all of us and it with that frame of mind that I share what I have gleaned.

If we are spiritual, that is one who is walking in the Spirit, being led by the Spirit, and demonstrating the Fruit of the Spirit we will be known. It is to these that Paul addresses his last piece of counsel. As he begins: Brothers and sisters; we can see that no one is left to wonder to whom he is speaking. Secondly, if you are spiritual this is your task: restore sinners in the spirit of gentleness. By implication it means mildness, humility, meekness. Is this not the picture of Christ?

Is 40:11 Like a shepherd he tends his flock; he gathers up the lambs with his arm; he carries them close to his heart; he leads the ewes along.

Matt 11:29 Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Tenderly gathering those who have wandered away Christ leads them back to the fold. That is my & our responsibility to the wandering sinners in our flock. Gentleness is our gift from the indwelling Holy Spirit and only comes when we allow him full reign in our hearts. It comes full circle when we can exemplify it by realizing how much Christ hates sin and how much he loves the sinner to whom he is calling. Thus as a believer in Christ it behooves us if we are obedient to be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you. [Eph 4] That is the spirit of gentleness.

So how full is your gentle cup today; is it half full or half empty? The fountain of living water is ready to fill your cup if you are willing. Jesus says: “let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wants it take the water of life free of charge.” [Rev 22]