October

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5)

Teachableness: Meekness is one of the most charming of child‑like characteristics. It is opposed to pride, arrogance and self‑importance. One who has it will be found approachable, teachable and responsive. Even so true meekness will be like steel in its flexibility and strength. This is because it is founded in God. One would therefore find it difficult to teach error to one who has meekness combined with purity of faith.

There are degrees of meekness. Moses in his day was the meekest man in all the earth. Jesus was so meek that thousands flocked around him without the slightest fear that they would be reproached. Instead they found a compassionate heart burning with sympathy and goodwill. Jesus exhorted them to learn of him, because he was meek and lowly in heart (Matthew 11:28‑30; Numbers 12:3).

Opposed to meekness is pride with all its various subtleties of self‑consciousness, vain reflections, touchiness, peevishness and obstinacy. These must all be overcome by those who are able to breathe from their soul depths: "In the secret of his presence, how my soul delights to hide! Oh how precious are the lessons which I learn at Jesus' side! Earthly cares can never vex me, neither trials lay me low, for when Satan comes to tempt me, to the secret place I go !"

FL

O God, let Thy Spirit now enter my heart.
Now as I pray this prayer,
        let not any room within me be furtively closed to keep Thee out.
O God, give me power to follow after that which is good.
O God, let Thy Kingdom come on earth.
Now as I pray this prayer,
        let me not be still intending to devote my own best hours and years
        to the service of lesser ends.

A Diary of Private Prayer
John Baillie