Meekness in the Bible is the eighth fruit of the spirit and can sometimes get confused with kindness or gentleness when translating into English from the original Greek. This is because the Greek language has more precise words to describe these virtues.
Meekness in the Bible Defined
Most importantly, meekness refers more to attitude and the whole state of mind as well as actions. Meekness produces gentleness. While gentleness, is also known as kindness and refers more to actions. Both words stem from the Greek word prautes. It can also be equated with humility.
Meekness does not connotate weakness like today’s society may think of it. But, instead strength.
According to Bible Gateway Tools:
” Meekness is an active and deliberate acceptance of undesirable circumstances that are wisely seen by the individual as only part of a larger picture.”
Bible Gateway Tools
Meekness Does Not Mean Weakness
Typically, humans respond to undesirable or difficult circumstances with frustration, bitterness, anger, and the like.
However, when you trust that God is in control and have faith in His ability to lead you and direct events in your life, You can accept those things which may not be pleasant in your life and with meekness accept it. That is not the same as resignation which can sometimes look the same externally.
“The patient and hopeful endurance of undesirable circumstances identifies the person as externally vulnerable and weak but inwardly resilient and strong. Meekness does not identify the weak but more precisely the strong who have been placed in a position of weakness where they persevere without giving up.”
https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/meekness
Meekness is most often found in the Bible in the context of the meek getting rewarded for their patient endurance. Meekness requires great inner strength and patience.
Examples of Meekness in the Bible
Take a look at the following scriptures as an example:
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me. For I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”
Matthew 11:29-30 MEV
“The meek will eat and be satisfied; those who seek Him will praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever.”
Psalm 22:26 MEV
“The meek will He guide in judgment, and the meek He will teach His way.”
Psalm 25:9 MEV
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5 MEV “The Lord lifts up the meek; He casts the wicked down to the ground.”
Psalm 147:6 MEV
Conclusion
To review, Meekness in the Bible does not mean weakness or resignation to undesirable circumstances, but requires a great deal of patience and internal strength. Let’s not be quite so quick to anger and bitterness when things don’t go our ways and try let the Holy Spirit grow meekness in us. Trust God to lead knowing that He will never give us more than we can handle.
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