Choosing Meekness
Daily Rays of Hope #137
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. - Matthew 5:5 NIV
In a world where meekness of spirit and heart is considered weakness, Jesus turns that concept on its head when he states that the meek will inherit the earth. To be submissive and easy of heart when it comes to dealing with the world it's not a natural defense.
It's natural to believe that you need to be strong. The need to fight for what you want in life and use all of your strength to make things happen is considered a good thing to do. It is considered the natural way to deal with the world and with each other. There is nothing inherently wrong with being strong, fighting for what you want, and operating in all of your might when dealing with the world.
Jesus introduces a new way. A way that is full of love and kindness. A path where you can rest in Christ and trust that he has your best interests in mind. Choosing meekness is about choosing peace. It's about choosing compassion. It’s about choosing empathy, acceptance, and softness of spirit.
When faced with the opportunity to choose meekness or to find your strength in being hard, strong, or whatever the world requires of you, remember this promise that blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. This scripture is an affirmation for being at peace and centered in all of your ways. This is your sign to operate in acceptance, compassion, and in love.
Three Practical Ways To Walk Out This Scripture Today
1. Practice Gentle Responses in Difficult Conversations
When you are confronted with frustration, disagreement, or criticism, choose to respond with gentleness instead of defensiveness. Take a moment to breathe and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Meekness is strength under control. It is not weakness. It is the decision to respond with grace, even when provoked.
2. Trust God to Fight Your Battles
Instead of trying to control every situation or force outcomes with your own strength, surrender your plans to God in prayer. Meekness involves trusting that God's timing and justice are perfect. Psalm 37:11 echoes Jesus' words: “But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.” Let go of the urge to fix everything and trust that God sees, knows, and will act on your behalf.
3. Serve Others with Humility
Make it a daily practice to place others’ needs before your own in small ways. Whether through a kind gesture, listening without interrupting, or helping someone who cannot return the favor, humility expresses the heart of meekness. Philippians 2:3 encourages, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” When you walk in meekness, you reflect the servant nature of Christ.