The Power of Meekness: A Countercultural Approach to Life - Blessed Are The Meek

The Power of Meekness: A Countercultural Approach to Life

In a world that often values assertiveness, self-promotion, and personal gain, there's a powerful, yet often misunderstood quality that stands in stark contrast: meekness. Far from being a sign of weakness, true meekness is a characteristic that embodies strength, self-control, and a deep understanding of one's identity in Christ.

The concept of meekness challenges our modern perceptions of success and power. We're bombarded with messages that encourage us to elevate ourselves, to be louder and more provocative to gain attention. Social media influencers thrive on self-promotion, and provocative voices often gain the most traction. But what if there's a different way? What if true strength is found in gentleness and surrender?

Jesus himself said, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). This beatitude, like many of Jesus' teachings, clashes with worldly values. It invites us to consider a radically different approach to life – one that prioritizes humility, gentleness, and surrender to God's will.

But let's be clear: meekness is not weakness. It's not about being small, shrinking back, or being helpless. In fact, Jesus himself – the all-powerful, almighty God – describes himself as meek. In Matthew 11:28-30, He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Meekness is about strength and power under control, used gently and humbly. It's choosing humility and gentleness even when we have the power to assert ourselves. Think of a bridled horse – an incredibly powerful animal whose strength is harnessed and directed. Meekness doesn't mean lacking strength or power; it means channeling that strength towards a purpose greater than oneself, with humility and gentleness.

The book of Proverbs tells us, "Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city" (Proverbs 16:32). Patience and self-control are key components of meekness. They allow us to respond to conflict and frustration with grace, rather than aggression or anger.

Jesus exemplified meekness throughout His life, but perhaps most powerfully in His submission to the cross. Despite His divine power, He chose humility for the sake of others. In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see Jesus – God incarnate – praying, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will" (Matthew 26:39). This is the ultimate display of meekness: the all-powerful God submitting to the Father's will, restraining His power for the sake of others.

As followers of Christ, we're called to have this same mindset. The Apostle Paul urges us in Philippians 2:3-8, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!"

Embracing meekness in our daily lives requires a shift in perspective. Instead of praying solely for personal blessings, we can ask God to help us be a blessing to others. It means submitting our time, finances, and abilities to God's kingdom plans. Meekness says, "God, all I am and have is yours. Even when I could assert myself or do things my own way, I choose Your way."

This countercultural approach to life isn't easy. It goes against our natural inclinations and the messages we receive from society. There will be times when we don't feel like being meek, when we know we could outwit others or use our power to our advantage. But that's not the way of Jesus.

The promise attached to meekness is profound: "they will inherit the earth." This inheritance may not align with our materialistic paradigms of success, but it reflects God's blessing both now and in His eternal kingdom. It's like a gardener planting seeds, knowing that with patience, an orchard will grow. The meek inherit by trusting God's timing, even when progress seems slow or the path doesn't look successful by worldly standards.

For those who follow Christ, the ultimate inheritance is beyond anything this world can offer. We're promised a new heaven and a new earth, where we will be with Him and become like Him. No earthly possession can compare to this eternal inheritance.

As we navigate life's challenges, let's strive to cultivate meekness. It doesn't mean being a doormat; rather, it's knowing whose we are and living from that place of security. It means responding to difficult situations and people with patience, gentleness, and grace. It's about channeling our strength and abilities towards God's purposes, not our own gain.

This journey towards meekness is a process of transformation. As we spend time in God's presence, immerse ourselves in His Word, and live in faithful obedience to Jesus, meekness will naturally grow in our lives. It's a fruit of the Spirit, cultivated through our relationship with Christ.

In a world that often feels chaotic and confrontational, embracing meekness offers a different path – one of peace, purpose, and profound impact. It's not always easy, but it's the blessed life to which we're called. As we fix our eyes on Jesus and seek to model our lives after Him, may we grow in meekness, trusting that in God's kingdom, true strength is found in surrender, and the path of humility leads to the greatest inheritance of all.