“Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5 (NASB95)

This statement by Jesus seems counter-intuitive to our nature. Look at any toddler who has had their favorite toy taken away and you will see some form of protest. They may cry, they may scream, they may physically retaliate. Adults have the same inclinations, but may manifest them differently, although not always.  We all have a natural tendency to fight for what we believe is ours — our stuff, our rights, our identity.  Jesus taught the blessedness of just the opposite kind of person.

Most likely an allusion to Psalm 37:11, Jesus was teaching that those who are meek, humble, gentle will inherit the earth. This type of person trusts in the sovereignty, holiness and faithfulness of God to bring glory to Himself in all things. Rather than fighting for pieces and parts of our own little kingdoms on this temporary world system, we are told to delight in God (Psalm 37:4). He is eternal and all-satisfying. Those whose temperament manifests faith in God will be given so much more than we could ever hope to garner for ourselves. [tweet_box design=”default”]Those whose temperament manifests faith in God will be given so much more than we could ever hope to garner for ourselves.[/tweet_box]