Jesus' Keys To Lasting Happiness

What are the secrets of happiness, not just fleeting merrymaking, but that true, permanent happiness, called blessedness? They are not really so secret, but found in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5).

Poor in Spirit

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3 ESV)

Poor people are dispossessed, abandoned, with a deep sense that the world has failed them. Material wealth deceives many into thinking that they are more important than the “little people.” Yet, in reality we are all “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17b NASB). Acknowledging this, we are more likely to seek the true gold and pure clothing from heaven.

Mourning

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4 NASB)

Mourning is part of repentance. Mourning our own sins and the sins of the world is good. It prepares a heart for change. Fasting is associated with mourning, humbling ourselves before God (James 4:7-10; Isaiah 58). Mourning means there is hope for better decisions next time. If we don’t mourn our sins, we will never change and find comfort. So yes, those that mourn will be comforted.

Meekness

“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5 KJV)

Who is more likely to be favored, the arrogant misfit or the humble team player? Humble people are good company. Gentle people are loved by all and inherit the land while spineless bullies will be long forgotten.

Righteousness

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6 NIV)

Jesus promises that if we crave justice and what is right, we will be filled. There is an emptiness that can only be filled by righteousness. Wrong produces pleasure for a night, a headache tomorrow and grinding burdens for life. The secret is that righteousness may be difficult, but it leaves unspoiled happiness for this life and the next.

Mercy

“Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7 NKJV)

Lack of mercy creates a police-state like atmosphere of secrecy and distrust. Mercy creates an atmosphere of trust, warm and affirming. Without mercy, we tend to cover up problems and leave them unresolved. In an atmosphere of mercy, we are not afraid to admit mistakes and then they can be worked on.

Pure-Heartedness

“God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8 NLT)

This is not naïvety but innocence, a motivation to do good without pretense, to carry no malice or dishonesty in our hearts. The pure hearted look for God in everything and thus see Him.

Peacemakers

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9 WEB)

Peacemakers bring a measure of calm. Jesus said blessed are the peace-MAKERS, not the peace-attempters. Pride may prevent making peace, but necessity demands it. Living in freedom must also include freedom from strife and warfare. Peace does not just happen. It has to be made.

Persecution for Righteousness

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 ESV)

Persecution can be mild harassment or life threatening. A quarter of Christians suffer severe mistreatment worldwide. Persecution is a badge of honor. It confirms that we are on God’s side. The opposite is also true. If everyone loves us, maybe we are doing something wrong. When harassment comes because we did right, it is a blessing.

The Beatitudes are the opposite of worldly thinking. Heavenly thinking brings blessings. Will you have a change of heart and mind and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!