The Beatitudes

Matthew 5:1–12 M:BCL

When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said: “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. “You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought. “You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat. “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you find yourselves cared for. “You’re blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family. “You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom. “Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

What is the chief end of man? A. Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

Does your commitment to Christ provoke persecution? (vs. 10)

Are you a peacemaker? (vs. 9)

Has the outside world overtaken your inside world? (vs. 8)

Do you have empathy for those in need? (vs. 7)

Are you hungry and thirsty for more of Christ in your life? (vs. 6)

More of you, more of you I've had all but what I need just more of you.

Of things I've had my fill and yet I hunger still

Empty and bare, lord hear my prayer for more of you

I'm not trying to find just some new frame of mind

That will change my old point of view

For I've been through it all deep inside nothing's changed, I'm not new

I'm not seeking a gift or emotional lift but one thing I'm longing to do

Is to lift up my cup and let you fill it up with just you. More of you, more of you I've had all but what I need just more of you Of things I've had my fill and yet I hunger still Empty and bare, lord hear my prayer for more of you!

Are you content? (vs. 5)

1 Timothy 6:6–9 (NKJV)

Now godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.

Are you still grieving? Or have you let God fill the emptiness? (vs. 4)

Have you surrendered control? (vs. 3)

Are you Happy?