Exhibit Mildness
Mildness is gentleness in temperament and behavior.
Jesus was mild-tempered while on earth, perfectly reflecting Jehovah's personality.
"Come to me...I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly at heart..." -Matthew 11:28-30 (compare John 5:19)As Christians we are expected to "exhibit mildness toward all men" -Titus 3:2.
Counsel given in a spirit of mildness usually is very well received. (Galatians 6:1)
All can contribute to Christian unity and peace by displaying "lowliness of mind and mildness". -Ephesians 4:1-3
When the weather is mild, it is agreeable, enjoyable. When a person is mild, or mild-mannered, it is a pleasure to be with him. The original Greek term describes, not outward gentleness or meekness, but inward mildness and graciousness; not the manner of one's behavior, but the condition of one's mind and heart. The adornment of Christian women is a "quiet and mild spirit, which is of great value in the eyes of God." -1 Peter 3:4. Men do well to have this same spirit in imitation of Christ Jesus. Yes, mildness is a godly trait that Jehovah values highly.
Mildness Linked to Humility
"Pride is before a crash, and haughty spirit before stumbling. Better is it to be lowly in spirit with the meek ones than to divide spoil with the self-exalted ones." -Proverbs 16:18, 19Mildness is closely linked to humility, being "lowly in heart". Jesus demonstrated humility throughout his earthly ministry. When he was hailed as King of the Jews, six days before his death Zachariah's prophecy was fulfilled: "Look! Your King is coming to you, mild-tempered, and mounted upon an ass, yes, upon a colt, the offspring of a beast of burden." -Zechariah 9:9 (Matthew 21:5)
Also, the prophet Daniel saw a vision of Jehovah delegating ruling authority to his Son. Jesus is described as "the lowliest one of mankind." -Daniel 4:17; 7:13, 14. Mildness and humility go hand in hand. Mildness does not imply weakness. Jesus showed a firm resolve not to compromise, even when under assault from Satan the Devil. He refused to tolerate the illicit commercial practices of the religious leaders of his day. (Matthew 4:1-11; 21:12, 13; John 2:13-17) However, Jesus maintained mildness of temper when dealing with the shortcomings of his disciples, and he patiently bore their weaknesses. (Matthew 20:20-28) Behind the gentleness there is the strength of steel. May we display this Christlike quality - mildness. Mildness is a remarkable quality that combines pleasantness with power. It is just as King Solomon wrote:
"a mild tongue itself can break a
bone." -Proverbs 25:15.
Pursue Mildness
People have different temperaments. Some of God's servants find it easier to manifest mildness than others. All Christians need to cultivate the fruitage of God's spirit, including mildness.
(Galatians 5:22, 23) We need to lean on Jehovah in prayer, asking for his holy spirit and then cooperate with his spirit to cultivate this quality. Paul's words to the young man Timothy were:
"Pursue righteousness, godly devotion, faith, love, endurance, mildness of temper."
-1 Timothy 6:11.
The word "pursue" implies that effort is needed. If you make the effort to meditate on the fine examples of mildness from God's Word, mildness can become a part of you, just like an implant. God's word will mold and guide you. "Hence put away all filthiness and that superfluous thing, badness, and accept with mildness the implanting of the word which is able to save your souls".-James 1:21. The way we conduct ourselves toward others demonstrates how well we are doing in this regard."Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show out of his fine conduct his works with a mildness that belongs to wisdom." -James 3:13
We can exhibit mildness if we consistently walk by spirit and exercise self-control.
Things we saw on a mild day in Encinitas our favorite Beach Town:
Breakfast at Java Hut
Lots of old cars!
Bike riders everywhere!
Cool Shoes clip on pedal!
These guys were from Riverside.
We observed friendly, dog loving, health conscious people in Encinitas!
I should have took more pictures of people with their dogs
There were sooooo many!
I was amazed at how obedient this puppy was,
Then the owners told me, this is a miniature Aussie
7 years old.
Skateboarders!
Dennis droooling
Lunch at Swamis Cafe!
Thick Acia smoothie, on top of homemade granola,
Topped with banana, strawberries, blueberries, boisenberries,
coconut, and bee pollen!
MMMMMmmmmm Better than Dairy Queen!
If that is possible.
1 comment:
"Mildness". Another good thing for me to work on. I have never been described as "mild". Jesus most certainly is a great example of how we are suppose to be.
Looks like a fun day at Encinita. I've never heard of a miniature Aussie, but I would sure love one. The are smart dogs.
The one bike guy looks like he should be from Italy.
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