February 16, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. (Philippians 4:5)

Chapter 4 of Saint Paul's letter to the Philippians contains several good verses that have been quoted and expounded by many preachers - rejoice in the Lord always, be anxious for nothing but make your requests known to God by prayer and thanksgiving, ponder on whatever is true and right, I can do all things through Christ, my God will supply all your needs, etc.

What's never taught is to let our gentle spirit be known to all men. Christians get a bad rap because of holier-than-thou, fire-and-brimstone preaching. That drives people away. We are to be meek, not offensive; loving, not legalistic; empathetic, not judgmental. The greatest power in the universe is not demonstrated in an attitude of moral superiority, but in humility and service. Just like we see in Jesus. That draws people to God.