Meekness Is Strength Under Control
Matthew 5:5
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Additional Reading Numbers 12:3; Colossians 3:12–14; Luke 23:33–34
Devotional
Meekness is often misunderstood.
Some hear the word meek and think weak.
But biblical meekness is not weakness.
Meekness is strength under control.
Think about electricity.
Lightning contains tremendous power, but uncontrolled power destroys.
Electricity moving properly through the wiring in your home contains power too—but controlled power serves.
One destroys.
The other blesses.
That is a picture of meekness.
Moses was described as an exceptionally meek man, yet he stood before Pharaoh. He led Israel through the wilderness. He faced enormous opposition.
Moses was not powerless.
He was powerful under God's control.
And the occasion when he did lose control cost him dearly.
The same principle applies to our relationships.
A meek Christian does not have to win every argument.
A meek Christian does not need the final word.
A meek Christian does not retaliate every time feelings are hurt.
A meek Christian does not use cutting remarks simply because a clever comeback is available.
Ask yourself:
When church arguments erupt, are people demonstrating controlled strength—or uncontrolled emotion?
Many conflicts are fueled by one repeated word:
My.
My way.
My opinion.
My preference.
My ministry.
My feelings.
There can be far too much “my” in church life and not nearly enough “Christ.”
Jesus gives us the supreme example.
If anyone ever had a right to retaliate, Jesus did.
He was falsely accused.
Mocked.
Beaten.
Rejected.
Crucified.
Yet from the cross came the prayer:
“Father, forgive them.”
That is meekness.
Power restrained by love.
Strength surrendered to the Father.
A willingness to forgive when retaliation would feel justified.
Imagine what would happen in our churches if every believer responded that way.
Revival may begin when we stop asking, “How can I win?” and begin asking:
“How can my response look like Jesus?”
Reflection Questions
When I am offended, do I respond under the Spirit's control or react emotionally?
Do I feel compelled to have the last word?
Have sarcastic or cutting comments damaged any of my relationships?
What usually triggers anger or defensiveness in me?
How would Jesus respond to the situation I am facing right now?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me meekness. Bring my words, emotions, reactions, and strength under Your control. When I am hurt, help me forgive. When I disagree, help me remain gentle. When I could retaliate, help me display Christ. Amen.