Josanne Anthony, SAVED News Correspondent
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:2-10
When Jesus spoke to the crowds during His Sermon on the Mount, He offered some very comforting words. Jesus didn’t suggest that people were blessed because of money or belongings. Rather, He addressed the character and tenderness of the heart, and the blessings that would follow such attributes.
Poor In Spirit
The poor in spirit are those who know their need for the Savior. Their souls are not satisfied with anything less.
While the Bible simply says that those who mourn are blessed, it is talking about those who are experiencing godly sorrow and repentance. Jesus said that He would send us the Comforter in His name. Those who repent and are filled with the Holy Spirit have experienced that Comforter.
The Meek
Those who are meek shall inherit the earth. Those who have a desire to know God greater and to understand His ways more deeply will receive greater understanding. The depths of the wisdom of God are never-ending, and the Bible says that He generously gives to those who ask. (James 1:5)
The Merciful
Those who are merciful to others will receive the same from God. They additionally receive greater mercy from others because of their own forgiving and compassionate ways.
Pure In Heart
Those who are pure in heart are those who have turned from carnal, fleshly ways. Their desires are no longer after the ways of the world, opening up the blessing to see the Lord.
Peacemaker
Being a peacemaker is a great thing in the eyes of God. He cares about how humanity treats its fellow man. To be called the sons of God is an honor.
Finally
And finally, Jesus reminds everyone that there is a reason to continue following Him even during the most difficult of times. The world did not want Jesus, nor did they care for His followers. It’s ok though because He was not of this world, and neither are His children. He sees the sacrifices and the resilience when His children are persecuted for righteousness’ sake. Their reward is the kingdom of heaven.
As we continue on in our own journeys of life, let us strive for the attributes we read in the beatitudes. The rewards are beautiful and worthy of being attained!
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