The Attribute of Meekness
Meekness is an important quality in Christianity. Please consider this subject for further study.
Moses demonstrated meekness.
First, notice meekness defined. Thayer defines this concept as “gentleness, mildness.” Meekness is one of the attributes of “the fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:22 23). It is also one of the attitudes that Jesus mentioned necessary in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:5). Paul tells the young preacher Timothy to ensue such (1 Tim. 6:11). It is one of the attributes Christians are encouraged to apply as a part of our new life (Col. 3:12). It is a part of the worthy vocation (Eph. 4:2). The psalmist describes it this way: “The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way…But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…The Lord lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground” (Ps. 25:9; 37:11; 147:6).
Next, notice meekness exemplified. The Bible mentions two specific people who were meek. The first one was Moses. A parenthetical statement in Numbers 12:3 reads: “Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” The statement is profound considering the context in which the book of Numbers records it. His own family (Aaron and Miriam) were complaining against him. Considering all of the troubles and trials that he faced in leading such a large nation from Egypt to Canaan for several decades, meekness must be an important trait for leaders—the ability to handle rejection and com plaints with gentleness. The other example—one that is perfect—is our Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah prophesied concerning such in Isaiah 11:14. He Himself invited humanity with such when He said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:2830). We find His meekness pictured in His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, not riding a great, white stallion, but a lowly donkey: “Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass” (Matt. 21:5). Even the apostle Paul appealed to “the meekness and gentleness of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:1).
Now, notice meekness applied. We are to use meekness in restoring our wayward brethren (Gal. 6:1) and our brethren who leave the truth (2 Tim. 2:2426). Paul asked, “Shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?” (1 Cor. 4:21). It is a characteristic of elders (Titus 3:2). Spouses who are married to non-Christians especially need such in their relationship (cf. 1 Pet. 3:4). All Christians need such as a part of our faith—“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Pet. 3:15).
May all of us realize the importance of this attribute and seek to perfect it in our lives.