The Ladder Step 24


Step 24 - On Meekness, Simplicity, Guilelessness, Wickedness

Meekness can be difficult to define. I think our culture hears this word and thinks weakness. It is gentleness of the spirit. It is between apathy and unrestrained zeal or anger. It is the stability of soul because it is grounded in the love and sovereignty of God.

St. John further defines meekness by discussing simplicity and guilelessness which is part of being meek.

Simplicity: not hypocritical; what you see is what you get.

-“those who have simplicity as part of their nature are good, but those who come by it through struggle are better. The reason is that it is the gateway to humility

- simplicity opens our life to God’s grace.

- Children embody this virtue of simplicity. (Mt. 18:3) "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”

Guilelessness: uncalculating—no hidden agenda; not being cunning or crafty

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