Yesterday I shared that Paul urged the Ephesian Christian to assume an attitude of Christ-likeness. If they did so, their actions would reflect that heart attitude. “With all” are strong words, because they indicate each of these characteristics are to be exercised fully. Humility and gentleness often get a bum rap. It isn’t being self-denigrating or wimpy, the way the world might define the terms. Instead, we choose to see ourselves as no more important than anyone else and behave accordingly. Jesus could have been arrogant and demanding—He was God’s Son!—but He modeled humble compassion. We’re to do the same. Why do we strive to be humbly compassionate? For the sake of love, understanding that people have faults and insecurities and misconceptions that sometimes lead them in directions God wouldn’t choose for them. The word “love” here is an important one. In Greek, it’s agape, the unconditional love God extends toward His people. It’s an active love, not mere emotional feeling. Being humble, gentle, patient, and loving is sacrificial. Easy? No. But when we ask the Spirit to love others through us, it’s doable.
