The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth
It is funny how certain words can conjure up images and definitions that may or may not be accurate. For me, meekness is one such word. When someone says a person is meek, my mind goes to words like kind, soft, timid, or helpless. Truth be told, meekness is anything but weakness.
Meekness is strength under control.
Think of a strong horse that willingly follows its rider's commands or a large, powerful dog that is completely obedient to its owner. They possess tremendous strength, but that strength is harnessed and directed. That is meekness.
For the Christian, meekness means bringing our thoughts, emotions, desires, and conduct under the control of the Holy Spirit. When we are harassed, insulted, or provoked, meekness does not mean we are incapable of responding. We have the strength to respond, but we choose how we respond. Instead of allowing our ego, anger, or desire for revenge to dictate our actions, we surrender our response to God and choose what is beneficial to others.
Jesus said, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29).
Notice the connection between meekness and rest.
When we insist on defending ourselves, proving ourselves, gaining recognition, and demanding that others treat us as we think we deserve, we carry a tremendous burden. But when we learn the meekness of Christ, we can surrender that burden to the Father.
Meekness frees us from constantly chasing the esteem and praise of the world. We no longer have to prove our worth, win every argument, or have the last word. Our identity and value are secure in Christ.
So, if you find yourself carrying the burdens of life and feeling the weight of the world upon your shoulders, perhaps the answer is not to become stronger but to become meeker.
Learn the meekness of Christ. Surrender your strength to the Spirit.
And you will find that the path of meekness leads you exactly where your soul has been longing to go: into the peace and rest of the Father's arms.
With Gratitude, Pastor Jesse
