The Beatitudes have been running through my mind for a couple of months now. Words from The Sermon on the Mount....basically secrets to happiness or joyfulness (blessedness - if that's a word :)). So what does it take to be happy and blessed???? I'm sure if we took a poll, we would get a lot of similar answers. Here's what Jesus says about it:
Blessed are the poor in spirit...for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. In other words, happy is the person who isn't self-righteous about their spirituality. Not arrogant or puffed-up about what they believe. These people keep it simple. They know what they believe, but they are gentle about conveying that to others.
Blessed are those those that hunger now....for they will be filled.
Blessed are those who weep now...for they will laugh.
These two don't really seem like things that should make us happy....but I think the point is that there is a season to everything. The pain that some of us are going through right now will have an end. And then there will be blessedness when we enjoy what we have now and look back on where we came from...and are so thankful that we made it here.
Blessed are the meek....for they will inherit the earth. Meekness...gentle...humble...kind...power under control. Inheriting the earth is success. This kind of attitude is what it takes.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness...for they will be filled. Chase after things of God and He will bless you abundantly.
Blessed are the merciful....for they will obtain mercy. Have mercy on others. Even when they don't deserve it. Even when everything within you wants to withhold it. When you extend mercy to someone else...especially someone who you feel doesn't deserve it....something happens. Your actions speak volumes to them and others....and you will be blessed.
Blessed are the pure in heart...for they will see God. Pure in heart. Pure motives. Sincere. Genuine.
Blessed are the peacemakers....for they will be called the children of God. Peacemakers. Not peacekeepers. There's a difference. Peacemakers are assertive. They try to help bring peace to situations that aren't so peaceful....to relationships that are strained. Make peace and be blessed.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness...for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Don't be afraid or ashamed to stand up for what you believe in. Be true to yourself and to your beliefs.
Love your enemies. Do good to those who use you and treat you wrongly. Bless those that curse you. Give to everyone that asks of you, expecting nothing in return. Treat others how you would want to be treated. Don't judge. Don't condemn. Forgive. Freely give.
These things are all easier said than done. But anything really worth having....blessedness and happiness in this case...takes effort. Blessing isn't found in money or things or status. Blessing is found in loving others how they should be loved, being humble, persevering through tough times, and loving the God that will pull us through. Praying showers of blessing on you.....
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