Sunday, October 5 A slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle toward all.​—2 Tim. 2:24.

[Áine]

Sunday, October 5

A slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle toward all.—2 Tim. 2:24.

 

Mildness is a strength, not a weakness. It takes inner strength to keep calm when facing a trying situation. Mildness is one aspect of “the fruitage of the spirit.” (Gal. 5:22, 23) A form of the Greek word rendered “mildness” was at times used to describe a wild horse that had been tamed. Picture a wild horse that becomes gentle. That is, gentle, yet strong. As humans, how can we develop mildness and at the same time be strong? Not by sheer willpower. A key is praying for God’s spirit, asking him to help us cultivate this beautiful quality. Experience shows that this can be done. Many Witnesses have responded mildly when confronted by opposers, leaving a favorable impression on observers.—2 Tim. 2:24, 25. w23.09 15 ¶3

[dljbsp]

True strength wears quiet reins. Mildness isn’t weakness; it’s power under control — like a tamed stallion, fierce yet gentle. Pray for God’s spirit, and you’ll master storms with calm that astonishes the world.

[... in the shadows]

True power is shown in restraint.

[asm144]

A gentle word can break a bone

Proverbs 25:15

[Jones Nogueira]

Many brothers and sisters remain calm, even when others provoke them, and they leave a great impression on those who are observing.

 

Commentary: True mildness is a controlled strength, demonstrated especially in moments of provocation or conflict. Being mild, as taught in 2 Timothy 2:24, is not a sign of weakness but of spiritual maturity. It is a reflection of Jehovah's spirit at work in us. When we resist the impulse to retaliate and act calmly, we show self-control and imitate Christ's mildness.

 

Practical Lesson: In our ministry and when interacting with our brothers and sisters, we may face criticism or challenges. Instead of reacting harshly, we should respond with mildness, seeking peace. By praying for holy spirit and striving to cultivate this quality, we reflect Jehovah's way of acting and become more effective at helping others draw closer to him.

[Elnathan]

Mildness is not acquired by sheer willpower but by drawing closer to God, praying for His Holy Spirit & cooperating with its influence.