Being Blessed

By Bonnie Ricks
By Crossmap

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.¨ -Matthew 5:3-10 NIV

These verses in the book of Matthew are called "The Beatitudes" - declarations of blessedness. These verses begin what is called the Sermon on the Mount. Given on a hillside near Capernaum, it has been debated as to whether Jesus preached this passage as one sermon, or as several spread out over several days, or that Matthew might have recorded one sermon and added in other relevant teachings of Jesus when he wrote this passage. But whatever the circumstances, this incredible sermon shows the stark contrast between earthly living and spiritual living. It teaches us how to be blessed.

"Blessed" means more than happiness. Happiness is fleeting. It is controlled by circumstances. Blessedness is unaffected by circumstance. Happiness comes from laughter, pleasure, earthly prosperity. Blessedness comes from God. Happiness can drive you crazy seeking it. Blessedness brings you peace and hope and joy. Happiness lasts only briefly. Blessedness is eternal.

Whether you're single or married, divorced or widowed, you are still an individual in the Kingdom of God. The Beatitudes teach us what qualities to seek for ourselves - and what qualities to seek, not only in our mates, but in our friends. Why? Because anyone who is "blessed" is a person who is seeking after God, not after the world.

As we review the Beatitudes, look inside yourself for the qualities Jesus describes. Are you enjoying the enviable state of being "blessed"? Do you seek these qualities in the people close to you? If not V even when you¦re with friends, even if you¦re married - do you still wonder why you feel frustrated and alone? Think about it.

Used with Permission

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories