Topical Encyclopedia Meekness is a virtue that is often misunderstood as weakness, yet it is a profound strength characterized by humility, patience, and a gentle spirit. In the biblical narrative, King David exemplifies meekness in various aspects of his life, demonstrating a heart aligned with God's will despite his royal status and military prowess.David's Anointing and Humility David's journey to kingship begins with his anointing by the prophet Samuel. Despite being the youngest son of Jesse and overlooked by his family, David is chosen by God for his heart, not his outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7). This selection underscores David's humility, as he does not seek power or recognition but is content tending his father's sheep. His meekness is evident in his willingness to wait for God's timing to ascend to the throne, even after being anointed. David and Saul David's relationship with King Saul further illustrates his meekness. Although Saul becomes envious and seeks to kill David, David consistently responds with respect and restraint. In 1 Samuel 24, David spares Saul's life in the cave at En Gedi, cutting only a corner of Saul's robe to prove his loyalty and innocence. David declares, "May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me against you, but my hand will never be against you" (1 Samuel 24:12). This act of mercy and trust in God's justice highlights David's meekness, as he refrains from taking vengeance into his own hands. David's Response to Rebellion David's meekness is also evident during Absalom's rebellion. When his son Absalom conspires against him, David chooses to flee Jerusalem rather than engage in a destructive conflict (2 Samuel 15:14). His decision to leave the city demonstrates a willingness to suffer personal loss for the sake of his people and the kingdom. David's trust in God's sovereignty is further revealed when he instructs Zadok the priest to return the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, saying, "If I find favor in the eyes of the LORD, He will bring me back and let me see both it and His dwelling place again" (2 Samuel 15:25). David's Repentance David's meekness is perhaps most profoundly displayed in his response to personal sin. After his transgression with Bathsheba and the subsequent confrontation by the prophet Nathan, David humbly acknowledges his sin and seeks God's forgiveness (2 Samuel 12:13). His penitential psalm, Psalm 51, reveals a contrite heart and a deep desire for spiritual renewal: "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10). David's willingness to repent and submit to God's discipline reflects a meek spirit that values righteousness over pride. Legacy of Meekness David's life, marked by moments of triumph and failure, consistently points to a heart that seeks after God. His meekness is not a sign of weakness but a testament to his reliance on God's strength and guidance. As a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), David's example of meekness serves as a model for believers, illustrating the power of humility and trust in the Lord. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 17:29And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:9-14 Psalm 38:13,14 Psalm 120:5-7 Library Christian Meekness Psalm LIII. (LIV. ). David's Lord And to Holy David Indeed it Might More Justly be Said... Song to David David's Weakness The Life of Mr. David Dickson. Psalm CXXXII. The Seventh Season, The Image of Self. Resources Why are there so many different Christian interpretations? | GotQuestions.orgThe Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is gentleness? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about dealing with difficult people? | GotQuestions.org Meekness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Meekness: A Characteristic of Wisdom Meekness: A Fruit of the Spirit Meekness: Christ Set an Example of Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: Ministers should Follow After Meekness: Ministers should Instruct Opposers With Meekness: Ministers should Urge, on Their People Meekness: Necessary to a Christian Walk Meekness: Precious in the Sight of God Meekness: Saints should Answer for Their Hope With Meekness: Saints should Exhibit, in Conduct Meekness: Saints should Put On Meekness: Saints should Receive the Word of God With Meekness: Saints should Restore the Erring With Meekness: Saints should Show to all Men Meekness: The Gospel to be Preached to Those Who Possess Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Beautified With Salvation Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Exalted Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Guided and Taught Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Preserved Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Richly Provided For Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Shall Inherit the Earth Related Terms Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Tender-heartedness (2 Occurrences) Acknowledgment (6 Occurrences) Superabundance (4 Occurrences) |