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The Freedom of Total Submission

What do you think of when you think of meekness? Do you think it’s a desirable quality? Would you be glad if someone described you as meek? According to Jesus, meekness is something we should desire. How do you imagine meekness could factor into our growth in Christlikeness? This might be one of the most misunderstood Beatitudes because of the cultural connotations of meekness, but make no mistake: the meekness Jesus described significantly contributes to our spiritual growth.

This concept is difficult for us to understand in our achievement-oriented Western culture. But according to Christ, meekness is an important character trait that enables us to move forward in our spiritual growth. 

Think about a horse that hasn’t yet been broken. It isn’t used to the hand, so when someone comes near it, the horse bucks and kicks. It resists the bit and bridle, and its strength is uncontrolled. But when the horse gets used to the hand, its wild passions are subdued, its strength is brought under control, and the animal is at peace.

The Bible compares our fallen human nature to the impulse of wild animals (see Jer. 2:23-24). We have strength, but it’s neither directed nor controlled, so our energy gets used in ways that are at best unproductive and at worst destructive. In contrast, meekness is controlled strength. It tames the temper, subdues the self, calms the passions, manages the impulses of the heart, and brings order out of chaos in the soul. If we want to become useful to God, we need to become meek
in the biblical sense—to get used to the hand of God. 

Jesus is calling us to something wonderful here. Growing in meekness will subdue your impulsiveness, giving you control over anger. It will change the way you speak, giving you control over the harsh word and the sharp put-down. Growing in meekness will lead you into contentment, bringing you peace as you get used to the hand of God even in the difficult circumstances of your life. Most of all, meekness will position you to be useful in God’s service.  

For more information on the Momentum Bible Study, please visit LifeWay.com/MomentumStudy.