Our society places a great deal of emphasis on outward appearance and actions. But internal transformation creates consistency in outward behavior. Gentleness and quietness are character traits that we develop over time. It’s difficult to measure heart growth, so emphasis gets placed on behaviors. But when this happens, we run the risk of misinterpreting the Bible, and personal preferences and convictions rule the day rather than God’s word.
1 Peter 3:4 is one such verse. It states, “but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”
We must examine this verse within the biblical and historical context. God’s word is living and active, applicable to our everyday lives.
So what does it mean to have a gentle and quiet spirit, and how do we apply it to our lives?
To understand this phrase, we must look at its biblical and cultural context. Roman women competed with one another in the area of fashion. They placed great emphasis on elaborate hairstyles, jewelry, and clothing. They expended their energies on their outward appearance and neglected their inner self. It’s like an immaculate house exterior, but inside holds rotting stairs and layers of dust.
Peter is stating in 1 Peter 3:4 that a quiet and gentle spirit is unfading and precious to God. He’s not saying that women can’t wear jewelry and fashionable clothing or speak up. He’s referring to the spirit of a woman, not her body. Neither is he referring to a woman’s voice, personality or behavior. It’s the state of her spirit that affects her behavior. So let’s dive into what it means to be gentle and quiet.
The derivative of the Hebrew word for quiet comes from three words: shaqat, sha’ar, and nachath. These words convey the following meanings: undisturbed, at ease, and set on. The Greek word, hesuchazo, indicates action as one refrains from meddlesome behavior. It also i s the study to be quiet.
Are we peaceful when things don’t go the way we want? Do we respond in a rage or with trust? These types of behavior changes take place from a heart that’s at ease and set on God.
Gentleness is power under control. When I picture gentleness, I see Jesus.
I see him calming the wild storm, healing the sick, and loving all. This is the kind of gentleness every woman should have. The kind that changes lives and hearts.
A gentle word can calm the harshest response. That is power under control for the tongue is a raging fire that destroys hopes and dreams in an instant. To be gentle is not saying what you want to say, no matter how much you want to say it, or how true it is. Gentleness is knowing when to speak and when to stay silent and being okay with both.
