Meekness Is Not Weakness

Society generally looks down upon people who are quiet and unassuming. Names like Casper Milktoast are assigned to them. The primary meaning of Casper Milktoast according to Wikipedia is "someone who lets others win at his/her expense. People who behave in this way may become so completely submissive that others describe them as a 'doormat'". However, note that this definition can be seen from a more positive viewpoint. Allowing someone else to have the upper hand may be a choice more than a defect.

The Greek word translated "meek" in Matthew 5:5 comes from the root word praos, which means "mild," "gentle," and "soft." A meek person is gentle, tenderhearted, patient, and submissive. The Greeks used the word to describe a soothing medicine, a gentle breeze, or a domesticated colt. Each of these is an example of power under control which is what Jesus was advocating when he said, "Blessed are the meek." Medicine can kill or heal, a breeze can destroy or refresh and a colt can be useless or useful depending on whether each is under control or not.

When Jesus was preparing his followers for kingdom living through the principles called beatitudes, He knew that they would face challenges and circumstances that would test them to see if they had really changed. A Christian who is not under the control of the Holy Spirit becomes more of a liability than an asset. In Ephesians 5:18 we are instructed to "be not drunk with wine but filled with the Holy Spirit." The idea here is the same as meekness. Just as being under control of alcohol leads to unusual behavior so being under the control of the Holy Spirit leads to unusual behavior. When we allow the Holy Spirit to control and harness our spirit we can have a real impact on those around us and can function as proper citizens of the kingdom of God.