Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Quote of the Day - Meekness

The comments below come from Elder David A. Bednar in the April 2018 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is the best definition of Meekness that I have ever heard and has inspired me to strive to become a meek person.

Meekness is a defining attribute of the Redeemer and is distinguished by righteous responsiveness, willing submissiveness and strong self-restraint.
The Christlike quality of meekness often is misunderstood in our contemporary world. Meekness is strong, not weak; active, not passive: courageous, not timid; restrained, not excessive; modest, not self-aggrandizing; and gracious, not brash. A meek person is not easily provoked, pretentious, or overbearing and readily acknowledges the accomplishments of others.
Whereas humility generally denotes dependence upon God and the constant need for His guidance and support, a distinguishing characteristic of meekness is a particular spiritual receptivity to learn both from the Holy Ghost and from people who may seem less capable, experienced, or educated, who may not hold important positions, or who otherwise may not appear to have much to contribute. Recall how Naman, captain of the king's army in Syria, overcame his pride and meekly accepted the advice of his servants to obey Elisha the prophet and wash in the River Jordan seven times. Meekness is the principal protection from the prideful blindness that often arises from the prominence, position, power, wealth, and adulation.
Meekness is an attribute developed through desire, the righteous exercise of moral agency, and striving always to retain a remission of our sins. It is also a spiritual gift for which we appropriately can seek. We should remember, however, the purposes for which such a blessing is given, even to benefit and serve the children of God.
As we come unto and follow the Savior, we increasingly and incrementally are enabled to become more like Him. We are empowered by the Spirit with disciplined self-restraint and a settled and calm demeanor. Thus, meek is what we become as disciples of the Master and not just something we do.

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