Topical Bible: Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy

◄ Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Meekness is a virtue highly esteemed in the Scriptures, often associated with humility, gentleness, and a quiet strength. It is not to be confused with weakness; rather, it is a controlled and deliberate strength that submits to God's will. The Bible presents meekness as a quality that brings about profound spiritual blessings, including an increase in joy.

Biblical Foundation of Meekness

The Bible frequently highlights the importance of meekness. In the Beatitudes, Jesus proclaims, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5). This promise underscores the future reward for those who embody meekness, suggesting a deep, abiding joy that comes from living in accordance with God's will.

Meekness and Joy

The connection between meekness and joy is evident throughout Scripture. Meek individuals are often portrayed as those who find their delight in the Lord, trusting in His provision and timing. Psalm 37:11 states, "But the meek will inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace" . This verse links meekness with a sense of peace and contentment, which are integral components of true joy.

Examples of Meekness in Scripture

1. Moses: Described as "very humble, more than any man on the face of the earth" (Numbers 12:3), Moses exemplifies meekness through his leadership and reliance on God. Despite facing numerous challenges, his meekness allowed him to experience God's presence and guidance, which brought him great joy.

2. Jesus Christ: The ultimate example of meekness, Jesus invites us to learn from Him, saying, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:29). His life and teachings reveal that meekness leads to a deep, soul-satisfying joy that transcends circumstances.

3. Paul the Apostle: In his letters, Paul often speaks of joy amidst trials, attributing his contentment to a life surrendered to Christ. His meekness is evident in his willingness to endure hardships for the sake of the Gospel, finding joy in serving others and advancing God's kingdom.

The Joy of the Meek

The joy experienced by the meek is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in a relationship with God. Meekness allows believers to trust in God's sovereignty, leading to a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). This peace fosters a joy that is resilient and enduring, even in the face of adversity.

Cultivating Meekness

Believers are encouraged to cultivate meekness as part of their spiritual growth. The Apostle Paul urges Christians to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness" (Ephesians 4:1-2). By embracing meekness, believers open themselves to the joy that comes from living in harmony with God's purposes.

In summary, meekness is a divine gift that enriches the lives of those who possess it, leading to an increase in joy. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, it is clear that meekness is a pathway to experiencing the fullness of joy that God desires for His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 29:19
The meek also shall increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ...
... yet softened with the graces of meekness and patience ... I name Leonard Harburgh, once
famous, gifted, laborious, useful ... Atlantic, and much more to those along the ...
/.../chapter 2 from the close.htm

From the Latin Translation of Cassiodorus.
... he shows the perfection of the man gifted with knowledge ... but grace is joyous, and
trains by the word of meekness. ... ways He shall lead forth with those that work ...
/.../who is the rich man that shall be saved/i from the latin translation of.htm

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... if each of my limbs were to be gifted with a ... or in love and in the spirit of meekness?"
[2950] Apart ... But now she enjoys the true riches and those good things ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... His works increase remarkably in popularity. ... at any time seen wicked things, by those
who professed ... and did contemn, slight, and abhor their own righteousness ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

part i
... the Lord and your faith will increase more and ... action of your Guardian Angel,
tranquillity, meekness and kindness ... help through the names of those saints upon ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... to himself, and a servant as he is gifted for work ... Their costliness therefore, lay
in those additions which they ... for or because of its great increase: and both ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

part ii
... thou must be an example of meekness, purity, valour ... customary to forgive the sins
of those who trespass ... offended by Christian people, who are gifted with speech ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ...
... death, that is the devil; and deliver those who through fear of death, were all
their lifetime subject ... grief and trouble, but with solid joy and peace. ...
/.../bunyan/grace abounding to the chief of sinners/grace abounding to the chief.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... apparition had yet remained; and generally those dreams were ... mingled with them, laughed
aloud at their torments; and ... the danger, and leaped for joy when he ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm