1 Thessalonians 2:7
“But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children.”
The second part of this verse focuses on the gentle way a mother cares for her children. This has been the focus of psychology. These early years factor greatly into a child’s development.
If a child received this tender care, then one becomes a happy, secure person. If it wasn’t received, then comes a lifetime of trying to seek that validation. This lack is manifested in a myriad of issues.
Paul says that is the manner that he treated those in Thessalonica. He was gentle with them. The previous verse refers to Paul’s option of using his authority as an apostle. This sounds like a Boss giving orders. There are times when that is appropriate. Paul used that method with the Corinthians. They were dabbling in sinful behavior. He had to be the authority. Not so with the Thessalonians.
This church was a good group that was recognized for their generosity. They didn’t need correction. Paul’s visit was filled with drama, as the city rioted. This wasn’t reflective of the believers there. They were abused by the rioters. They were probably traumatized and needed a gentle approach.
When in authority, we have to have different styles. Gentleness and directness are two extremes. Both are important and need to be used in different situations.
We can better be gentle if we’ve experienced gentleness. Without it, we may be harsh with ourselves and others. We are God’s children. He can work that within us. If we didn’t receive it from our parents, then it can be gained from others in life.
Like with most things learned, it’s gained through pressure and and pain. We may have a duel situation. One in which we should be gentle, and another in which we are receiving gentleness. We may be saddened by our less than gentle response and pray for more of it.
Lord, thanks for gentleness. Help us to give it, we needed. Also, please provide it when we are experiencing harshness.