One of the Beatitudes says, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) Today, we equate meekness with being shy and timid, even weakness. But the biblical concept of meekness is more closely related to gentleness or humility. When a powerful person sets aside their power and acts humbly and gently for the better good, they are displaying meekness. Moses is described as being the meekest man on earth, but he certainly was not weak.

Zechariah 9:9 contains a prophecy about a King who would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. Kings and conquerors would normally ride a white stallion as a symbol of power and victory. Jesus, however, came in gentleness, humbling Himself and dying on a cross. And then, in strength and power, He rose in victory over death, hell, and the grave, freeing whosoever will from the grip of sin. He did all of this for our sake, promising a home in heaven for all who believe in Him.

There is a time to use strength and power for righteous reasons, and there is a time when it’s better to serve with gentleness, humility, and meekness. Meekness is not weakness. We need the wisdom to know the difference.