The Meekness 'Dress'

 

Well, we may feel like the ‘dress’ of gentleness, or meekness, we tried on last week is a little uncomfortable, or maybe unfashionable. We may be a little cautious about adding it to our closet.

Meekness? You mean I should make meekness a part of my life? Isn’t that a sign of weakness that allows others to walk all over me? I mean, I should be able to stand up for my rights~shouldn’t I??

We stopped here last week because meekness is often looked upon with a negative connotation.  In our culture today it is often considered to be a trait of weakness. But, let’s take a minute to really look closely in the mirror at ourselves wearing the ‘Meekness Dress'. When we look at the fine lines and details, I think we will find it quite attractive after all!

Meekness, or gentleness, is actually the opposite of self-assertiveness and pride, which are ‘outfits’ we have already thrown out of our heart’s closet. Meekness involves having a ‘delicate consideration’ for the rights and feelings of others. It has nothing to do with making ourselves a doormat for others. 

Romans 12:10 speaks of “preferring one another.” In other words, we are to give preference to the needs of others over your own needs or desires.  That is a perfect example of meekness. I used to tell my first graders that my ‘dream’ argument to have to break up would involve “you go first”, “no, YOU go first”… There is no ‘dishonor’ in that type of attitude.

Warren Weirsbe in his Colossians Bible Study, Be Complete, defines meekness as “not weakness, but power under control.” He describes it as a soothing breeze as compared to a destructive wind. Think about the power of the wind! Yet, it can also create a peaceful relaxing breeze on a lovely spring day!  We like the wind to be under control, don’t we? In the same way, we have the power of Christ behind us, taking care of us, avenging us when necessary, yet He expects us to be under control. Others should see a ‘breath of fresh air’ in us, regardless of our circumstances. Let God take care of the rest. We will see the same type of control factor next week when we look at the ‘dreaded’ longsuffering ‘dress.’ 

Don’t feel ashamed or too proud to wear the “Meekness Dress”.  In the grand scheme of God’s plan for your life, it may be the most attractive outfit you ever wear!

Word Studies taken from Expositor's Bible Commentary and Bible Knowledge Commentary 

Looking good! 

Debbie