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Trusting God, Even When We Want to Take Matters Into Our Own Hands

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

A couple of weeks ago we saw how God blesses the poor in spirit with the Kingdom of God.  For those who see their need for a savior and hear the wonderful words of the Gospel which brings salvation and eternal life.  This is a great hope, but what about here and now?

Psalm 37 has the same message,

“In just a little while, the wicked will be no more; though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there. But the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace.” – Psalm 37:10-11

Here the psalmist tells us not to worry when others do things that are wicked to try to get ahead, rather we should trust in God and delight in His ways.  God has promised to provide for His people. He knows our needs here on earth and provides for them.  So, we need not worry.

But what does it mean to meek?

It does not mean “milquetoast,” “Mama’s boy,” “wimp,” “doormat”, or anything else derogatory or pitiful. The meek are they who trust in the Lord and wait patiently for Him, as in Psalm 37.  We don’t ignore wrongs or not seek justice, but we are willing to bear with each other, forgive one another, and allow God to bring justice.

Surely there will be people who will wrong us from time to time either unintentionally or with malice.  If done accidentally, we only cause problems by lashing out. Whereas forgiveness brings peace and restores the relationship.  If the person acted with malice, thrashing about seeking revenge only eggs them on, knowing they are getting to you.  Instead, we can wait on the Lord and trust Him to bring justice either through the offices God has put in place (government, police, HOA, etc) or whatever other means He may choose.  This also brings peace to us in the situation as we are not filled with malice nor are we consumed with exacting vengeance.

Remember, though, Matthew 5:5 is a description of the blessings from God, not a new command.  Jesus is telling us that we can trust in Him and delight in His ways.  We don’t need to worry.  He will provide for us in our life here on earth.

Heavenly Father,

Sometimes it’s hard not to try to take matters into our own hands.  Help us to follow You and trust that You will provide, whether it is physical things we need or justice for wrongs that have been done.  Thank you for the peace we can have knowing that You are taking care of us.

Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Kurt