The Peacemaker : A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict

by Ken Sande

The more confidence we have that God is both sovereign and good, the meeker we can be. Meekness is an attitude toward God that causes us to accept all his dealings with us as being good, and thus to accept them without resistance or resentment (Rom. 8:28). A meek person is content and thankful no matter what his circumstances (Phil. 4:12-13), because he sees that God has already given him everything he needs in Christ (Matt. 5:5; Rom. 8:31-32). Thus, instead of thinking, "I'm missing out; it's not fair," a meek person thinks about and gives thanks for God's goodness, mercy, power, and provision (Acts 4:23-31; 5:40-42; 7:59-60; John 18:11). Meekness has nothing to do with weakness, for both Moses and Jesus are described in the Bible as being meek (Num. 12:3; Matt. 11:29). In fact, meekness has sometimes been referred to as "power under control." This quality is highly commended throughout Scripture (Ps. 37:11; Matt. 5:5). Meekness has a direct impact on our dealings with other people, especially in the midst of conflict. Knowing that God works for good in all things, a meek person is able to endure mistreatment from others with patience and without resentment or bitterness. Because this attitude does not come to us naturally, we need to pray that the Holy Spirit will work steadily to help us to become meek.