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 5:1-12).
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, and often have a deep sense that the world has failed them. Material wealth deceives us that we are more important than the “little people.” Yet, in reality we may be “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17b NASB). Poor in spirit refers to that inner attitude of humility, that has nothing to do with our financial status. A rich man can be humble, and a poor man can be arrogant.
Mourning
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4 NASB)
Mourning is part of repentance. Mourning our sins prepares us for change. Mourning gives hope for better decisions next time. We mourn our sins, change and find the comfort of heaven’s forgiveness.
Meekness
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5 KJV)
Humble people are gentle and loved by all. Arrogant oppressors are unpopular in the long term. Meek people will inherit the land and 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)
If we crave doing what is right, living justly, we will be filled. Doing wrong produces long term pain. Righteousness is often difficult, but leaves unspoiled happiness for this life and the next.
Mercy
Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7 NKJV)
Without an atmosphere of mercy, people cover up their 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)
Pure hearts do good without pretense, malice or dishonesty. 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)
Blessed are the peace-MAKERS, not the peace-attempters. 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. When harassment comes because we did right, it is a confirmation and thus 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!
