Let Him Who Is Without Sin

by Noah Siak

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

proverbs 15:1

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is Jesus’ kindness toward the adulterous woman in John 8. When the Pharisees bring a woman into the temple who had just committed adultery, Jesus has a simple response: “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone.” The Pharisees, stumped by this, all file out one by one. Jesus, being the only one remaining says “neither do I condemn you. Now go and sin no more.” 

What Jesus shows us here is an immeasurable amount of gentleness and grace toward the adulterous woman. Because he was the perfect Son of God, he alone could condemn this woman – but instead, He was gentle with His words and told her to no longer sin. 

Jesus sets an amazing example of what it means to be gentle towards others. As He was gentle toward the adulterous woman, we are to be gentle toward the people around us. As you start your day, I encourage you to pray this with me:

Jesus, I am so thankful for the gentleness you have shown me time and time again. Whether that be through calling me out of sin through your Spirit, or by encouraging me through your word – I can’t thank you enough. As I go on with my day, I want to grow in the fruit of gentleness. Would you be with me as I walk with You? Would You help me to show gentleness to those I may come across? Would you give me the courage to speak truth in love and to encourage my friends, family, and coworkers? And specifically, would you help me be gentle toward ___________? (Who is someone you struggle to be gentle toward?) Thank you for using me. I’m not worthy – but You are. Amen