Many, even in the church, think that to be meek is to be weak. But the opposite is true. What the Bible is talking about is a powerful virtue. The slogan ‘strong enough to be gentle?’ comes close to defining it.
True meekness is best seen in Christ. He was submissive, never resisting or disputing the will of God. His absolute trust in the Father enabled Him to show compassion, courage, and self-sacrifice even in the most hostile situation.
Now let’s apply this to ourselves. When we are meek, we will bear insults without lashing out in proud resentment or retaliation. We’ll thank God in every circumstance, while using every circumstance, good or bad, as an occasion to submit to Him. Meekness would be weakness if it meant yielding to sin. But because it stems from goodness and godliness, it is a great strength.
Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Meekness: an attitude of humility toward God and gentleness toward men, springing from a recognition that God is in control. Although meekness and weakness may look similar, they are not the same. Weakness is due to negative circumstances, such as lack of strength or lack of courage. But meekness is due to a person’s conscious choice. It is strength and courage under control, coupled with kindness.
Barnes Notes states this about when we should speak up.
The meek: Meekness is patience in the reception of injuries. It is neither meanness nor a surrender of our rights, nor cowardice; but it is the opposite of sudden anger, of malice, of long-harbored vengeance.
Scripture References:
Galatians 4:19
Matthew 21:5 ref Zechariah 9:9
Revelation 19:11
Numbers 12:3
Exodus 12:37-38
John 18:19, 23 ref Matthew 11:29
Matthew 21:5, 12-13 ref. Isaiah 56:7
1 Peter 3.8-9
Isaiah 53:7
Matthew 25:31
Acts 23:1—5 Acts 16:36-37
Romans 12:19
2 Corinthians 10:1
Galatians 5:22-23 Galatians 6:1
Ephesians 4:2
Philippians 4:5
Colossians 3:12
1 Thessalonians 2:7,6
1 Peter2:13—15, 18-23 1 Peter 3:1, 4 1 Peter 8:8 1 Peter 3:9
2 Timothy 2:24-25
Zephaniah 2:3
1 Timothy 6:11
James 1:21 James 3:13
Psalms 25:9 37:11 76:9
Proverbs 15:1, 18 16:32
Isaiah 11:4 29:19 61:1
Genesis 13:8, 10-11
Matthew 5:5 ref Psalms 37:11
Psalms 25:9
Galatians 5:33-23
Zephaniah 2:3
