Contagious Characteristics: BeatitudesSample

We often look at meekness as a weakness in our world. Jesus is not telling His followers to be weak and to let others take advantage of them. Meekness means having strength under control and living under God's spiritual control. In the New Testament, farmers would use the word meek to describe a wild animal, like a horse trained to submit to and follow the farmer's lead. The farmer trained the wild horses for farm work, like plowing fields and riding. Here is something to note, the horse doesn't become weak when he does farm work or when people ride him. Instead, it is learning how and when to use its strength. So, when Jesus says Christians are meek, He is not saying they are weak. Rather, He implies they submit to God's will and let God lead their lives. Meek people trust the Lord because they know God's ways are best.

When learning about meekness, it is always best to look at the life and ministry of Jesus himself. When He came down to earth, we know in scripture that though He was like God in every way, He did not think that His being equal with God was something to use for His benefit. Instead, He emptied Himself by choosing to give up His place with God and take on the role of humanity (Philippians 2.6-7). Note this does not mean that Jesus was not God, for we know that He was still 100% God. However, it does mean that He would experience the same feelings as humans, such as hunger, thirst, temptation, pain, and suffering (Hebrews 4:15).

We see the ultimate expression of Jesus' meekness the night before He was crucified. While religious leaders were arresting Him, He told them He had the power and ability to release twelve thousand angels at the snap of His finger that would come to defend Him and defeat His accusers (Matthew 26:53). Yet, Jesus submitted to the will of His Father, so He could fulfill His purpose of saving humanity, and pursue a relationship with you and me. This "strength under control" act shows His grace, unconditional love, and compassion toward us.

Reflection Questions:

1. What are some practical ways you could walk in meekness this week? At school? At home? When others accuse you?
2. What have you learned from this study, and how will you put it into practice today?