The ever-transforming work of the Holy Spirit within us is to transform us into the likeness of Christ. Jesus Christ represents the perfect dichotomy of the Lion of Judah who willingly became the sacrificial lamb. Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory (Matthew 12:18-20). Jesus Christ was both bold as a lion and meek as a lamb. Furthermore, He won the victory over death and sin. However, this He did by becoming the humble servant.
When the pharisees in Matthew 12 plotted to kill Him, Jesus withdrew Himself and continued His mission. He healed people and cast out demons. Yet, He did not raise up an army of followers to fight against the Pharisee. Fearlessly, boldly He continued His journey on earth to the cross where He would humbly take upon His righteous shoulders the sin of all. We see the perfect blend of boldness and meekness in one. He was never a victim; because, He chose to go to the cross in our place. Meek as a lamb; yet, powerfully bold as a lion. If this is to be our example as to how to live; then, we need the Holy Spirit within us to perform this in us. Because by nature we are reactionary; always seeking to hold our “self” as number 1 in all we do.
Meek and Bold Intertwined into One
We have trouble seeing how meekness and boldness intertwine; because, we believe meekness is weakness. Yet, we see this dichotomy perfected in Jesus Christ. Yes, He was meek and gentle; yet, He marched forward with purpose and strength. Meek, humble and gentle while at the same time bold and fearless. The Lion of Judah is the slain lamb.
Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain (Revelations 5:5-6)
Then they all fell before Him in worship, singing.
Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth (Revelations 5:9-10).
All the redeemed humbly, boldly sing.
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever (Revelations 5:12-13).
In Jesus Christ, we are made courageous to stand for the truth of the gospel. At the same time, we are meek servants, recognizing that without Him “I am nothing”.
Meek Boldness, a Fruit of the Spirit
Unafraid we are to proclaim the truth of the gospel. We are to stand firm on truth and justice. Yet we are to do so with a meek and humble spirit, knowing that we, our selves are saved by His Grace alone and not by our own hands.
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:3-11).
Concluding Thought
[bctt tweet=”Because I know I am nothing without Him and my salvation is by grace alone, I am Humble.” username=”effiedarlene”]
[bctt tweet=”Knowing that in Christ I am God’s Redeemed Beloved Chosen Child, then, I am bold, fearless when facing trials.” username=”effiedarlene”]
[bctt tweet=”The Holy Spirit’s fruit of meekness comes with strength and boldness for the journey; because, I know this is not my final destination. ” username=”effiedarlene”]
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because, He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Previous Posts In this series:
One Fruit of the Spirit: Faith to Overcome Fear
What Really is the Goodness of God?
A Gentle Spirit in the Face of Contempt. How?
What is Patience Really in the Face of Conflict?
One Failed Peacemaker and a Gracious God
In a World Divided How Can One Find Peace?
The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy
Displaying the Fruit of the Spirit Love. How?
Perfect in Love Oh How Can it Be?
Is Your Fruit of Love Sweet or Bitter?
How Does God Prepare the Soil for Growth?
What Fruit is the Garden of Your Heart Producing?
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2018
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Footnote and Credits
Picture courtesy of RoninRon Custom Art