Disciples Learn Paths of Blessedness
Matthew 5:5
Meek: Quiet, gentle, easily imposed upon; submissive
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth
~ Jesus
Like much of Jesus’ teaching, this beatitude has roots in the Old Testament. There is a striking parallel in Psalm 37:11 where David wrote "the meek shall inherit the earth", calling for patience as evil men seemingly thrive while godly folk face continual struggles.
David’s psalm uses phrases like "don’t fret", "don’t envy", "trust God", and "be still". Though meek people are often perceived as those who get run over, passed over or simply ignored, instead think of one who is patient and operating with inner peace. For Jesus’ followers, this inner peace comes from God and the submitting component of meekness is a willingness to wait on God.
Non-meek individuals would then come off as impatient and aggressive toward situations, unwilling to wait on God.
Meek Christians do not ignore un-Christian things. Meek Christians maintain the values of Christianity and act in accordance to their faith in God. Meek Christians choose to wait for God. Meek Christians maintain boundaries that prevent their beliefs from being compromised because they are disciples of Jesus. We want to trust that God takes care of us, guards, and provides for us – regardless of the evil or good actions around us.
Prayer For the Week
Father God, help me grasp meekness as akin to patience and self-control rather than weakness. I want to trust that with You tending to my life’s desires and needs, I don’t need to strong-arm my way or force issues. I pray that You would open and close doors as best befit my situation, and that I would have the faith to either step through or step away as the circumstances merit; in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:73-80 10th letter: Yodh (י)
- Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding to learn your commands. - May those who fear you rejoice when they see me,
for I have put my hope in your word. - I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. - May your unfailing love be my comfort,
according to your promise to your servant. - Let your compassion come to me that I may live,
for your law is my delight. - May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause;
but I will meditate on your precepts. - May those who fear you turn to me,
those who understand your statutes. - May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees,
that I may not be put to shame.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Pondering Point
The letter Yodh is the dot, a single point indicative of that from which all creation springs (i.e. God). What value do you find knowing God has made and formed you?