A Culture Of Brokenness

Read: Matthew 5:3-12

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5, NIV

IN WORD

Jesus was well familiar with Hebrew Scripture. He quoted it often and expanded on its truths. The blessing for the meek is one of those quotes; Psalm 37:11 says the same thing. The meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. The gentle people of Israel—the ones who have power without abusing it, who could promote themselves but don’t, who submit themselves to God without rebelling against Him—are the ones who will actually inherit the nation.

Jesus reiterates this—the word translated “the earth” is also the word for “the land,” as in the country—and possibly expands on it. On a much grander scale, those who are last will be first, not just in Israel but in the new earth. On a cosmic stage, these people will be exalted and rule with Christ in His Kingdom.

Who are the meek? They are lowly in heart, unassuming, unpretentious, and gentle. Meekness can imply brokenness, as in the case of a horse that no longer resists his master’s bridle. The word can refer to humility—an attitude Jesus has already included in the blessing of the poor in spirit—and it is especially seen in those who have other options. Whether it’s referring to people with earthly status and power or children of the King with spiritual privilege and the keys of the Kingdom, the meek don’t oppress, push, control, manipulate, berate, complain, or wield a heavy hand. They understand the kindness and gentleness of God, and they demonstrate it.

IN DEED

Kingdom people are not self-promoting. We may be bold, persistent, and even brash in spiritual pursuits, but we don’t buy into the “every man for himself” philosophy of the world. It doesn’t fit the Kingdom culture, and we don’t have any need for it anyway. A person with a meek heart can trust God for promotion and position rather than forcing him- or herself into it. Meekness is an attitude of confidence in Him. And it leads to blessing.

ADDITIONAL READING: Psalm 37:11

Perspective of the meek: “In himself, nothing; in God, everything.”

A. W. TOZER