Radical Meekness: The Quiet Strength That Changes Everything – Sermon Notes for Sunday, January 25, 2026
January 25, 2026
In a world that rewards retaliation and celebrates getting even, Scripture calls us to something radically different. Romans 12:17-19 challenges us:
“Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:17-19 NKJV)
This passage introduces us to a concept that the Apostle Paul lists among the fruits of the Spirit: meekness.
What is Meekness, Really?
Let’s clear up a common misconception right away: meekness is not weakness. It’s not timidity, and it’s certainly not being a pushover. As 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
The Greek word for meekness is praotes (pronounced prah-ot’-ace), meaning gentleness or humility. But here’s the key insight: meekness is strength under control. It’s the discipline to restrain power, not the absence of it.
Think of it like a powerful river channeled through a dam—the force is still there, but it’s directed purposefully rather than unleashed destructively.
Three Truths About Meekness
- Meekness Demonstrates Godly Wisdom
James 3:13 asks, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” Notice the connection: wisdom isn’t just what we know—it’s how we conduct ourselves. True wisdom shows up in a meek, measured response rather than a reactive, ego-driven one.
- Meekness is Non-Resistance
In Luke 6:29, Jesus teaches, “To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also.” This isn’t about being a victim—it’s about refusing to let someone else’s actions dictate your character. When we choose non-resistance, we break the cycle of retaliation and demonstrate a strength that comes from a secure identity in Christ.
- Meekness is Precious in God’s Sight
1 Peter 3:4 describes “the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” While the world values assertiveness and dominance, God treasures a gentle spirit. What the culture overlooks, heaven celebrates.
Living It Out
Radical meekness isn’t passive—it’s intentional. It requires daily surrender and the recognition that vengeance belongs to God, not to us. This week, consider: Where are you holding onto the right to “get even”? What would it look like to release that to God and respond with controlled strength instead?
Remember, the meek aren’t weak. They’re the ones strong enough to let God fight their battles.
