ACE #280: The Blessed Life

In Matthew 5, the “Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount,” Jesus turns a mountainside into a classroom.  He takes the opportunity to teach his disciples about the true nature of being a follower of Christ through the “Beatitudes,” eight very specific blessings.

He said:

³ “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
⁴ Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
⁷ Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

¹¹ “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

The word “Beatitudes” means “happiness”.  But far beyond “happiness” are peace and inner joy that can only be obtained by having the qualities of righteousness.  Aren't you glad that God has your happiness, peace, and inner joy in mind?  What a blessing!  God took the guess work out of it!  He gives us clear directions to function in righteousness as it relates to the Kingdom of Heaven and the key to living the blessed life.

 

But in verse 11, Jesus makes it personal with “Blessed are YOU…” by telling us that when we stand against evil and do what is right for His sake, there is a great reward in heaven.  And that, is the best blessing.