Meekness is not Weakness

Meekness is not weakness. This quality has too long, and too generally, been identified with a kind of weak passivity or niceness that is neither very respectable nor very likable. The common view is that the meek do not step up to the challenge—they stand on the sidelines.

Instead, the proper interpretation of meekness is being selfless while living strongly to help others. Meek persons are self-denying as they take on hard challenges. Meekness is compatible with strength. It is also consistent with being authoritative, powerful and bold. A person may be truly meek and at the same time daring, forthright and assertive.

Meekness is not something we inherit or pass along to our children genetically. It cannot be equated with certain personality types, and not with others. Meekness is not to be identified with niceness, softness, or passiveness. It is not like being timid or shy.

When we look at the Biblical examples of meekness, we see that meekness and boldness are like two sides of the same coin. True boldness, the kind that will stand up for the truth, and even die for it if necessary, is more possible when there is an inner quality of meekness present. In Numbers 12:3, we read. "The man Moses was very meek". Moses, for example, gave up the privileges of being the son of Pharaoh's daughter, and all the glory that that could have held for him, in order to lead his people to the promised land. In the process of doing al that, we see the meek Moses boldly confronting Pharaoh, speaking forthrightly with God, demanding of his people many hard things.

Meekness must be seen as a quality of our spirits produced by the spirit of Jesus. It helps to have the courage to be bold as we live the Christian life.

Ponder these thoughts. Would you like to be considered meek?