Live Different: Gentleness – Jeff Simmons @RHCC

Pastor Jeff’s definition of gentleness–strength under control–resonated with me, especially as he talked about gentleness in the context of leadership. I think a lot of men in positions of leadership have no problem with the strength side of the equation, but struggle with the control side. That is, they’re quick to exercise their power to command and speak from authority, but find it harder to reign in that power to serve others. As I reflect on the areas in my life where I lead–at work, at home–I think I have the opposite challenge. I have a good deal of control over myself, but I don’t own my strength enough. This was a challenge in my marriage, where I didn’t stand up for myself enough, and it’s a challenge at work, where my default position is to play well and defer to others.

As Jeff said, gentleness isn’t weakness. It’s strength under control, and I hope to strike a better balance between the two in my life.

“Gentleness,” a sermon in the “Live Different” series by Jeff Simmons at Rolling Hills Community Church, September 22, 2013. Video from the sermon will be available here.