Below is the devotional I wrote for Zion Lutheran Church’s Fruit of the Spirit Easter devotional book written by the pastors and some of the congregation at my church. As you will read, Kimberly has made a positive impact on my life and helped shape the Christian woman I am today. The minute I found out I was pregnant I knew I wanted Kimberly to be my daughter’s godmother. Kimberly (Aunt Kay Kay) continues to be a blessing in my life and is an extraordinary Christian mentor for my mini me!

Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the Earth. Matthew 5:5

It’s Not All About You

By: Jennifer Freeman Talley

Although often associated with negative connotations, meek does not equate to being weak, helpless, or timid. Meek is the opposite of arrogant and conceited. Meek people are not hoity-toity, presumptuous, or self-assertive. A meek person does not act superior to others. Being meek means showing grace to others, forgiving, and not holding grudges. The best example of meek is our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! In Matthew 11:29, Jesus describes Himself as being meek. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

In my young adult life, I placed greater importance on worldly things (success, power, popularity) then I did on being meek like Jesus. Although I went to church and volunteered in Sunday School, I was focused on myself.

During this time, I met a Christian co-worker named Kimberly. As our friendship was developing, she began telling me, “Jennifer, it’s not all about you!” If she had brought this up once, I probably would have dismissed it, but it came up again and again. At first it was hard to hear, and I admit I was a bit offended, after all, no one wants to be told they are selfish or arrogant! But after observing Kimberly, I realized I had much to learn from her. I was immature and self-centered, and I knew I could do better. Kimberly looks outside of herself and treats everyone she encounters, even strangers with kindness and respect. Although Kimberly is a sinner like every one of us, she is a beautiful example of what it means to be meek because she makes a concentrated effort to show godly attributes wherever she goes.

I thank God for putting this amazing friend into my life! What a blessing to find a friend who freely shares her love for Jesus and walks in His image. She loves and cares deeply for others and wasn’t afraid to call me out so I could be a better version of myself!

I recently experienced a situation where I wasn’t assigned to do something I really wanted to do. I took a step back and reminded myself, “Jennifer, it’s not all about you!” God has a plan, and I need not interfere as He has others in mind to take part. It’s about Jesus! He is the way, the truth, and the life. Striving to live in His meek image has brought me more happiness than I could ever imagine!

Prayer: Dear God, help me be quiet when it is fitting but give me strength and courage to raise my voice when it will benefit Your children. Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, so I can receive the reward of eternal life in the kingdom of heaven. Amen

Reflection: Can you, like Jennifer, point to someone in your life that reminds you to get outside your own needs to focus on others? How does Jennifer’s description of ‘meek’ differ from being ‘weak?’ In what ways do the “meek inherit the Earth?”