Blessed are the Gentle

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

Today’s verse in the Beatitudes can be a hard one to understand, largely depending on our background and age. Many are more familiar with the KJV text (“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth”), and it is the word “meek” that is a problem being a less used word. The Chambers English dictionary defines meek as having a mild, gentle temperament; or being submissive in extreme measure. Thus the word “gentle” in today’s verse (from the Greek praos) is synonymous with meek, and also with being humble. In modern society being meek, gentle, or humble are not admired attributes – indeed they are often mocked. Yet our Lord and Saviour prizes such people, hallelujah!

“Blessed [inwardly peaceful, spiritually secure, worthy of respect]are the gentle [the kind-hearted, the sweet-spirited, the self-controlled], for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5 Amplified Bible

As children of God, we are called to live in the world but to be separate from the ways of it. So often in my life, I have been blessed in meeting those who stand out from the crowd; that quiet but strong, exuding kindness where others are harsh – such types truly are the light of God’s Kingdom in a dark world. Such holy character brings its rewards; “for they shall inherit the earth.” The word “inherit” derives from Greek klēronomeō meaning to be an heir either literally or figuratively speaking.

Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
James 2:5

Dear Reader, take courage in your gentleness in a harsh world – your Father God loves you and smiles upon your loyalty to His Word. Continue to follow His Son, your Lord and Saviour in His example. We have the presence of the Triune God by our side in this life, and the reward of our Heavenly inheritance to look forward to.

“Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
Matthew 25:34

This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Devotional Treasures

About the Author

Devotional Treasures is a daily source of Biblical posts on various sources; they are free to all. These are written by me, Alan Kearns, and are inspired by my own private reading/study of God's Word.

Bio & Posts