I was recently criticized when I questioned someone about damage caused to property that I own. It began as a question, "do you know what happened here?" and quickly turned to a direction that could end with conflict, rather than peace and respect. So, what does a Christian do? Jesus said "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5.
But what does that mean? Does that mean that Christians are to never stand up for what is right, or for justice? Are we to ignore it when someone is harming another person? Just where is the boundary? The word in Matthew 5:5 translated as meek is referring to a disposition of gentleness, and is more about our attitude towards God. It speaks to our trusting in Him that whatever comes our way, we trust in His deliverance, rather than in our strength to handle an injustice done against us, or others. It is not an easy word to translate into English. One single emotion does not convey the depth of the meaning.
According to Guzik, the word "praus" the Greek word used in Matt 5:5, did not mean that the meek person was passive or easily pushed around, but rather it represented strength that was under control. When it comes to defense of others, I do not find a scriptural problem with taking action appropriate to the situation.
In my situation, the individual I questioned immediately took responsibility for the damage, and then became defensive. Seeing that text messages are not the way to handle the situation, I requested a sit down conversation so that no misunderstandings would take place and create a negative situation between us. At this point I was criticized as not acting like a "man of God." Here is where pride versus meekness butts heads. Meekness is a surrender to God's headship, His authority and direction. Rather than reply with a criticism, a negative or hurtful reply that would only serve my pride, and would only escalate the situation; meekness seeks to cease hostilities and allow God to handle it. Damaging this persons property to "get even" is never the right way to handle things. Pray is critical. Prayers for peaceful resolution is important and appropriate. Can you be angry, but not sin? I hope that what I did was to be angry, but not sin. Hebrews 12:14 instructs us to pursue peace with all men, and sanctification. This should include men both inside and outside of the church.
Hitting even more to the point are Paul's instructions in Romans 12:18-21. Be at peace if you can, do not seek revenge (that is God's area), do good to enemies, and not allow yourself to be overcome by evil. I continue to pray for peace.
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