Curious Christian

When I was young I thought of strength as something outward, something that could be measured in terms of force, endurance, or sheer willpower. Strength, as the world often defines it, is loud. It is unyielding. It refuses to bend. But the more I walk this journey of faith, the more I see that true strength is something quieter, something deeper. It is not found in overpowering others or in suppressing emotions, but in gentleness, patience, and self-control.

Paul’s words in Galatians 5:22-23 remind me that strength is a fruit of the Spirit, but not in the way the world expects. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—these are not the traits that win battles or demand attention. Yet, they are the very essence of what it means to be strong in Christ. Strength is not in crushing opposition but in responding with grace. It is not in proving oneself but in resting securely in the identity God has given.

I have learned that gentleness is not weakness, though the world may see it that way. It takes far more strength to respond with kindness in the face of anger than to lash out. It takes more courage to forgive than to seek revenge. And self-control, perhaps the greatest test of all, requires an inner fortitude that no physical power can match. To hold my tongue when I am tempted to speak in frustration, to turn away from selfish desires, to choose love over pride, these are battles fought out in the heart, and they are won only through the Spirit’s work in me.

There was a time when I thought strength meant standing alone, holding my ground no matter what. But I increasingly understand that true strength is found in surrender—to God, to his Spirit, to his way of love. Strength is not about proving myself; it is about trusting him even when it’s hard to do so. It is about letting go of the need to control and allowing God’s peace to reign in me.

So I pray: Lord, teach me to be strong in the way you desire. Make me gentle when I want to be harsh, patient when I want to rush, loving when I am tempted to turn away. Let my strength be found in you, not in the ways of the world. And may my life bear the quiet, unshakable strength of your Spirit.