Acknowledging these differences, it’s important not to accept the limiting belief that gentleness is weak and rigidity strong. Leaders are most effective when they don’t abuse their authority and when they consider people’s feelings before they act.

Mary Ann Froelich defines gentleness as “a conscious decision to temper one’s knowledge, skills, authority, or power with kindness and compassion” and argues that Jesus ministry was characterized by this virtue.

Thinking of others is the heart of Christlikeness and the best evidence of spiritual growth. This kind of thinking is unnatural, counter-cultural, rare, and difficult. Fortunately we have help: “God has given us his Spirit. That’s why we don’t think the same way that the people of this world think.”

kindness, modesty, and sincerity.”