“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Mt 5:3-12)
In this passage of verses from the Bible, Jesus describes the categories of people that He says enjoy special favor with God.
These are desirable attributes and personality traits in God’s sight, so we would do well to consider them.
- The poor in spirit,
- Those who mourn,
- The meek,
- Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
- The merciful,
- The pure in heart,
- The peacemakers,
- Those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, and
- Those who are reviled and persecuted for Jesus’ sake.
Jesus said that if any of us see ourselves in this list that we should rejoice and be extraordinarily happy because we will receive a huge reward in heaven. People who are described by this list are those who truly follow Jesus Christ, honor Him and respect Him as their example of faith and holiness.
As we see Christianity more and more under attack around the world, we do well to nurture and build up our faith while we still have the time and opportunity to do so. Draw near to the Lord with all of your heart and soul, mind and strength, in Jesus’ name.
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