Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth
Matthew 5:5 ESV
In my recent writings I’ve highlighted the armour we have been given enabling us to battle better. This week I would like to examine the importance of meekness in the midst of that battle.
While you might think this a dichotomy, I would like you to consider how many of our battles are found within the construct of personal relationships. 2 Tm 2:24 reminds us meekness enables us to patiently endure evil.
When we say our battle is not with flesh and blood, we hold an understanding that the destructive workings within our relationships are something driven by demonic strategy through the yielded flesh of mankind. We are not to battle with people, but follow Jesus’ example of committing ourselves to the one who judges righteously.
Suited up in the armour of God will keep us thinking, speaking and acting in one accord with the Father. While we have all this defensive clothing we must still, in the midst of our battles, govern our hearts. Meekness is a quality found within a purified heart.
I do love this word meek. It isn’t simply that we have power or authority but it is the righteous use of that power displayed ‘under’ authority. It is defined in various translations as gentle, mild and meek. Yet these words do little to help us understand the Fathers mind regarding this quality.
Vines Expository Dictionary tells us It is that temper of spirit in which we accept His dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting; it is closely linked with the word humility. Vines goes on to state “ It must be clearly understood, therefore, that the meekness manifested by the Lord and commended to the believer is the fruit of power. The common assumption is that when a man is meek it is because he cannot help himself; but the Lord was ‘meek’ because he had the infinite resources of God at His command. Described negatively, meekness is the opposite to self–assertiveness and self–interest; it is equanimity of spirit that is neither elated nor cast down, simply because it is not occupied with self at all.”
While Helps Word Study below, highlights the use of ‘strength’, it is strength within the context of authority given in Christ Jesus making Philippians 4:13 ~ I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me; a reality.
Now on to the word meek from Helps Word Study in the Discovery Bible ~
praýs (also listed as 4239a/praupathia in NAS dictionary) – meek. See 4236 (praótēs).
This difficult-to-translate root (pra-) conveys more than "meek." Being meek in Scripture is not being weak. Rather it refers to exercising God's strength under His control – i.e. describing power used without undue harshness.
[The English term "meek" often lacks this blend of gentleness (reserve) and strength.]
4239/praüs ("gentle while strong") describes the blend of: insisting only on what is necessary (in God's eyes), and all that is necessary. This divinely-produced balance reveals "active submission" by the believer who responds to people God's way.
2. In sum, meek (4239/praýs, pra-) in the Bible describes God-defined moderation. It functions in "perfect submission to the divine will. The Lord loves the combination of faithfulness and meekness that characterizes His people. In contrast to prideful exultation, these folk always remain modest.
We have two biblical examples of individuals who are described as meek. Preeminently, Jesus calls himself "meek and lowly in heart" in Mt 11:29 and tells his disciples to come and learn of Him. In the book of Numbers Moses, is noted as the meekest of all men on the earth. Two worthwhile examples to follow when dealing with people.
Jesus’ statement here from the sermon on the mount was the message he gave to those desiring to follow Him. These words are still His invite and promise to those who seek a narrow path and a higher way.
Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Whether it means now, or then, or both, I know I want to make sure this quality of Christ lives well in and through me. Clothed with meekness is one more thing that assures us of victory in every battle we face.