The Beatitudes 3

Matthew 5:5
Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.

Meekness has been given a bad rap. These days meekness has quite a negative connotation. To be meek has become the equivalent of being weak. But in reality meekness is far from weakness. Jesus was described as meek, but He was anything but weak!

Barnes states, “Meekness is patience in the reception of injuries. It is neither a surrender of our rights nor cowardice; but it is the opposite of sudden anger, of malice, of long-harbored vengeance.” Gill describes the meek as those “who are not easily provoked to anger; who patiently bear, and put up with injuries and affronts; carry themselves courteously, and affably to all; have the [least] thoughts of themselves, and the best of others; do not envy the gifts and graces of other men; are willing to be instructed and admonished, by the [least] of the saints; quietly submit to the will of God, in adverse dispensations of providence; and ascribe all they have, and are, to the grace of God.” Jesus fits both of these descriptions perfectly, and He expresses His desire for us to be the same.

Jesus says of the meek that they will inherit the earth. This is the opposite of what the world says. According to the world system it is those who aggressively assert their own cause and objectives; who are independent, “self-made men”; who are prepared to win at all costs that are to be admired and emulated. Those in the world don’t understand that the opposite of their approach is meekness. They are under the false impression that the only other alternative is becoming a weak doormat who allows others to walk all over them. This misconception makes them even more resolute in pursuing their aggressive approach.

In stark contrast stands Jesus’ approach. His was neither an aggressive approach nor a weak one. Rather, Jesus employed a much more effective approach; one that accomplished His entire mission on earth; one that attracted many dedicated followers; and one that continues to shine as an example today.

What was so unique and attractive about Jesus’ approach? Using the analogy of a building, it had a foundation of love; supporting walls of grace, truth, peace and faith; and a sheltering roof of gentleness, kindness, patience and humility. This approach enabled Jesus to teach with authority, lead with integrity, love with sincerity, and face opposition with tenacity.

Let’s pray that we would be meek enough to do the same!