Matthew 5:4,5

⁴ Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.

To me, this passage is suggesting that it’s ok to mourn because in doing so, we will rely on God’s strength, and He will comfort us. 

It then goes on to say that those who are meek will inherit the earth.  This goes against the idea that the world is controlled by those who are strong and ambitious enough to take what they want; that the world is controlled by the rich and powerful.  Instead, this verse is telling us that those who are gentle and humble will be the true inheritors of the earth. 

And remember that meek does not mean weak.  In fact, the definition of meek is ‘quiet, gentle, submissive’.  I think the key here is that this is in relation to God.  It doesn’t mean we need to allow ourselves to be seen as weak and be walked all over.  Instead, it means we are willing to accept and submit to God’s will, rather than our own will and desire. 

Verse 4 seems easier to grasp than verse 5, doesn’t it?  But both are putting God in control and allowing him to rule our lives, not the other way around.   

This is something that we all struggle with, so I encourage you now to take some time praying to God – ask him to comfort you when you mourn and help you to be meek so that you may inherit His riches. 

Janet Sutton