Be meek and mild!

Rev Enoch Thompson | JANUARY 23, 2023 | MATTHEW 5:5

KEY VERSE: Matthew 5:5 (NIV)

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

MESSAGE:

Aggressive loudness and self-projection are the marks of the worldly astute person. Quick retaliation is the norm of the worldly person. The Lord Jesus calls His followers to be contrary to this, they are to be meek.

The true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ on the contrary are meek people. The hymn writer refers to the Lord as “Gentle Jesus, meek and mild.” A meek person is one who remains calm under extreme provocation, though they may have the power to ruthlessly deal with the assaults on their dignity so suffered. A meek person exercises power under control when angered and forgives. They are able to control themselves and not react in ways that will escalate differences. The meek person lives so as ”to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” (Titus 3:2 NIV). They are to be like the Master who said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matt 11:29 NIV).

By worldly standards, a meek person is often considered a weak person. A meek person is often taken advantage of by godless people who think their evil against the meek is smartness. The meek person is often disposed of their possessions and are seen to be losers of what this world has to offer.

The Lord Jesus compensates the loses of the meek with the assurance that “they will inherit the earth.” What this means is that even though their disposition may lend them to being disposed of their goods, they have control of their inner orientation which makes them healthy, their gentleness lends insights into their business which yields profit and success. Their amiability makes them the best company for socializing and for business. Meekness, therefore, gives a certain power to master and possess the earth.

But it also means the assurance of a place in Heaven. The promise here is fetched from Ps 37:11 where it reads “But the meek will inherit the land, and enjoy great peace.” “The land” here refers to Canaan, which was a picture of Heaven, and therefore the assurance is of a place in God’s eternal home. In effect, meekness has promise for this life and the life beyond the grave.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Determine to master your spirit and pursue gentleness, especially when you live in a provocative environment, at home, at work or even in the Church.

PRAYER:

Gentle Jesus, meek and mild, please help me to be like you. Give me that self-control that takes away the triumph from those who use force and violence to enrich themselves. For your dear Name’s sake. Amen.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!