A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW      

BLESSED ARE THE MEEK (Lowly) 

Matthew 5:5 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” 

The world loves power! Men and women strive after power and control. Winners are valued and admired!   

The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 37:7,10-11 “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. . . A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.” 

The point of this psalm is your hope is not in your power, ability to win in the competitions of this world, or accumulate wealth, fame, and the like. Seeking of such things is like one is in a desert walking toward a mirage. Jesus said it this way, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (Mark 8:36-37)  

In today’s devotional verse Jesus is not speaking about humility when referring to the “lowly,” nor necessarily those living in financial poverty. The lowly are those who recognize and live their lives fully aware that they are unable to help or save themselves. Jesus has in mind the words of the Psalmist, “. . .wait for the Lord. . .wait patiently for Him. . .”   

The oppressive power of Satan and the overwhelming burden of your own sins are the center of your lowliness. The only relief and ability to overcome both is the power of the Gospel. “. . . the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18) St. Paul wrote to the Thessalonian Christians, “. . . our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit . . . “ (1 Thessalonians 1:5) 

Not by your wisdom, might or power but only through Jesus are you able to overcome all things and be blessed. “(You can) do all this through Him who gives (you) strength.” (Philippians 4:13) 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, send Your Spirit into my heart to give me faith to forsake the power of the world and be empowered by the Gospel. In Your holy name. Amen. 

Seek ye first the kingdom of God, And His righteousness.  
And all these things shall be added unto you! Allelu, Alleluia! 

Ask and it shall be given unto you, Seek and ye shall find,  
Knock and the door shall be opened up to you, Allelu, alleluia! 

Man does not live by bread alone, But by ev’ry word   
That proceeds from the mouth of the Lord, Allelu, alleluia!  (LSB 712)