Blessed: Part 3 - 'The Meek'

This Sunday, Simon Lace brings us the talk in the latest of our EBC services. We encourage you to reflect on the bible text and join us in the prayer that follows below.
 
Here are some questions to consider:

Readings:

Matthew chapter 5 verses 1 - 4

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Psalm chapter 37 verse 11

But the meek shall inherit the land,
    and delight in abundant prosperity.

2 Corinthians chapter 12 verses 8 - 10

Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.



Prayer and Reflection:

Loving God, we humbly acknowledge our failures and our need of Your grace. Help us by Your Spirit to take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when we are weak, then we are strong. Dear Lord, strengthen us to be forgiving when we are wronged; to refrain from anger and forsake wrath. Help us be tenderhearted, showing patience, forbearance and tenderheartedness toward others, just as You show to us. We wait on You, O God, for the season of joy and gladness, when You reward us in our meekness, making us co-heirs with Christ of a new earth, redeemed and perfected according to Your holy will. Amen.



Questions to Consider

1. What do you consider to be the meaning of the word ‘meek’ in this context of blessedness?
2. Read the whole of Psalm 37, which you will find here. What attitudes or behaviours does the psalmist align with ‘the meek’?
3. The psalms often contrast something with its opposite. Do you notice here that the psalmist seems to contrast the meek with ‘the wicked’?
4. Who or what examples can you think of as examples of meekness – maybe in contrast to wickedness?
5. What does it mean to be meek in response to testing people or trying circumstances?
6. Reflect and discuss how Jesus himself modelled this understanding of meekness.
7. What is there in your life right now that might require you to display meekness?