Blessed Are The Meek – Sunday Thought For The Day

The following was written for March 30, 2014, “Our Daily Bread” by: David C. McCasland.
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One problem with the English word meek is that it rhymes with weak, and people have linked the two words together for years. A popular dictionary offers a secondary definition of meek as “too submissive; easily imposed on; spineless; spiritless.” This causes some people to question why Jesus would say, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:5).

Greek scholar W. E. Vine says that meekness in the Bible is an attitude toward God “in which we accept His dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting.” We see this in Jesus who found His delight in doing the will of His Father.

Vine goes on to say that “the meekness manifested by the Lord and commended to the believer is the fruit of power. . . . The Lord was ‘meek’ because He had the infinite resources of God at His command.” He could have called angels from heaven to prevent His crucifixion.

Jesus told His weary, burdened followers, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am [meek] and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:29). He was the perfect model of meekness.

When we are tired and troubled, Jesus invites us to discover the peace of meekly trusting Him.

Love sent the Savior to die in my stead.
Why should He love me so?
Meekly to Calvary’s cross He was led.
Why should He love me so? —Harkness

God has two dwellings, one in heaven and the other in a meek and thankful heart. —Walton

Insight:
The Greek word rendered “meek” in Matthew 5:5 is also rendered “gentle” (nas) or “humble” (nlt). Moses was commended as the meekest man on earth (Num. 12:3). And Jesus described His own disposition as meek: “I am gentle and lowly in heart” (Matt. 11:29; cf. 21:5). Because this word is used of Moses and Jesus, it is clear that meekness is not weakness. Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary defines meekness as “an attitude of humility toward God and gentleness toward men, springing from a recognition that God is in control. It is strength and courage under control, coupled with kindness.” As a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:23), meekness is a virtue that should characterize the Christian (Eph. 4:2; Col. 3:12; 1 Peter 3:15). The Christian is to be “gentle, showing all humility to all men” (Titus 3:2).

READ: Matthew 5:1-10
5 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:

2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,

3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.