Why did Paul choose to come to the Corinthians in love and meekness instead of with a rod?

Paul chose love and meekness because harsh measures were not his nature unless absolutely necessary. He wanted the letter to prepare the Corinthian congregation so he could appeal to them in love and meekness rather than come with wrath, anger, and a rod.

Les explains that Paul asks the Corinthians, "What will ye? Shall I come unto you with a rod?" This means coming with wrath and anger and not sparing them. The alternative is coming in love and in the spirit of meekness. Paul goes in love and meekness because it just was not his nature to take harsh measures if he did not absolutely have to. This letter was preparatory to his coming to the congregation in Corinth, so that he could appeal to them in love and meekness.

1 Corinthians 4:21

What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

How will Paul come to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 4:21?

Paul asks whether he should come with a rod, with wrath and anger and not spare, or in love and in the spirit of meekness. The context indicates he will come in love and meekness, since harsh measures were not his nature unless absolutely necessary, and the letter prepares the Corinthian congregation for that appeal.