After his discussion on living in a worthy manner of being called to be a Christian, Paul now uses four words to describe the Christian’s attitude for living with others, and especially fellow Christians (Ephesians 4:2). These four attitudes are to be accompanied with the type of love that is seeking the good of the other person.
Humility, in Paul’s world (and many times in our world) was a sign of weakness, and in some cases was considered an insult. However, we must consider Paul’s meaning when we judge ourself to have little or no importance. There must be a balance between expressing humility and the image we portray of ourselves. This does not mean we think we are “nothing” or “have no value.”
We want to communicate that we do not consider ourselves of more importance than another person. This is not to say we do not recognize the different traits and skills in another person, but rather we do not consider our own skills, attributes and characteristics as more important than the other person’s. They have their own skills, attributes and characteristics. As long as others are godly, Christians must be willing to honor and acknowledge these traits as being valuable. Humility is not about “putting ourselves down,” but rather in our minds, elevating the other person to a position of importance.
Gentleness, again is not a weakness for a Christian. A person with a mild disposition, who does not deal harshly with others, will not be one who is easily imposed upon, but rather one who has self-control, especially in dealing with others who are not kind or are angry.
Patience, which is closely associated with gentleness, is the ability to endure the other person regardless of their traits. It may best be seen when our anger toward the actions of another person is not quickly expressed.
Tolerance, usually, thought of in connection with one’s reaction to the opinions of another person, is not the agreeing with or accepting the opinions of another person, but the attitude of being able to allow the other person to express their opinion without giving a negative reaction.
Love is the motivator for these four attitudes. These attitudes are seen when goodwill, or benevolence and affection, are expressed toward another person. This type of love can best be described as wanting what is best for the other individual regardless of the consequences to the person giving the love.
When these attitudes are an integral part of the Christian’s life, then we will be people who will bring about unity in a church or community. We will have the necessary attitudes to be living God’s way.