Understanding Biblical Meekness: Strength Under Control 

A "clip" from a Sunday morning message, titled, The Unity of Christ, by Pastor Steve Yoder, delivered December 8, 2024.
Watch on YouTube (this link takes you to the exact clip in the message).

True meekness is often misunderstood in today's world. While many associate it with weakness or timidity, biblical meekness actually represents something far more powerful—strength under perfect control.

What Does Biblical Meekness Really Mean?
Meekness can be translated in several ways, with gentleness being one of the most common interpretations. However, the concept goes much deeper than simple gentleness.

The Perfect Illustration of Meekness: The Workhorse
Consider a powerful workhorse - an animal of tremendous strength capable of:
• Delivering lethal kicks
• Breaking through fences
• Causing significant damage if it chose to

Yet when properly trained, this mighty animal:
• Willingly wears a harness
• Channels its strength for productive work
• Remains gentle despite its power
• Chooses restraint over dominance

How Does Meekness Apply to Our Daily Lives?
Meekness manifests in our lives when we:
Have the power to retaliate but choose not to
Could point out others' mistakes but hold our tongue
Possess the ability to force our way but remain patient
Have the strength to harm but choose to help instead

Why is Meekness Essential for Christian Unity?
Maintaining unity in the Spirit requires:
1. Thinking of others before ourselves
2. Not considering ourselves higher than we ought
3. Exercising restraint in our words and actions
4. Using our strength to build up rather than tear down

Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to practice true biblical meekness. Consider these questions:
In what situations do I need to exercise more restraint despite having the power to act otherwise?
How can I channel my strengths to serve others rather than dominate them?
Where might I be using my power or position in ways that harm unity rather than build it?

Take time to identify one relationship or situation where you can demonstrate strength under control. Remember, true meekness isn't about being weak - it's about being strong enough to choose gentleness and restraint when you could do otherwise.

Practice responding to difficult situations this week by asking yourself: "Just because I can, should I?" Let your strength be guided by wisdom and love, always aiming to build unity rather than assert dominance.