Meekness, by definition, is someone who is submissive and weak, rather than a world-changer. Therefore, it's not a description most of us want on our resume, and people who are described as meek are often laughed at and scoffed upon.
Meekness is counter-culture, because nobody wants to be seen as weak, which is why it can be confusing and confronting to our thinking when we read the words of Jesus. He says,
"Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5) and that "the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace" (Psalm 37:11)
The promise that the meek shall inherit the earth was part of Jesus' blessing and teaching when he preached "the sermon on the mount", describing the characteristics of those who choose to be part of his family and the Kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:1-12)
Meek does not mean to be timid or fearful but gentle, humble, self-controlled, and loving.
Jesus is the ultimate example of meekness, but contrary to popular opinion of what meekness is, Jesus is the complete opposite of a pushover. He was meek and gentle in dealing with others and approached the hurting and the lost with compassion, yet encouraged and led his followers to be neither timid nor fearful, but rather bold and courageous.
Paul, who faced abuse, stoning, shipwrecks, imprisonment, and death, described his preaching to the Corinthians as "pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:2)
Moses, too, was described as incomparably meek, and when his siblings and the rest of the Israelites spoke against him, Moses wasn't concerned with defending himself or attacking them back. Instead, he was slow to anger and trusted and deferred to God, who then came to his defence. (Numbers 12) Meek men and women of the bible demonstrated resolve, courage, conviction, and controlled strength.
The correct view of meekness is yielded strength that puts everything in God's hands and defers and submits to his leadership and wisdom. It's not cowardice or fear of standing up to people but rather having the courage to "hold your fire" and trust God for His justice, direction on how to act, and protection.
The blessing of choosing meekness – of controlling and yielding your strength to God's wisdom and choosing to be self-controlled, humble, gentle, and trusting, is that we inherit both heaven and earth. "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth, and such is the Kingdom of heaven.
Meekness is Jesus' recommendation and example. He's no weakling or sissy, but through meekness, (yielded strength) He changed the world, so I encourage you to learn from him today. He promises that you will both inherit the earth and find rest for your soul as you do.
"Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:29 NLT)
"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." (Colossians 3:12)
"Who is a wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom." (James 3:13)
Prayer: Lord, please help me to yield my strength to you so that I can walk in gentleness and humility. I trust you to be my defence and that you will guide and direct me in my dealings with others. Would you please help me learn from you, Jesus, what true meekness and humility look like? In Jesus name Amen.
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