WHAT DO THE BEATITIUDDES MEAN?
Jesus surprised his disciples by telling them what kind of people would be blessed by God. His list of traits are called the Beatitudes, meaning “to bless” or “to make happy.”
POOR IN SPIRIT
This word was taken from a Greek word meaning “to crouch.” It can mean lowly , afflicted, helpless, powerless to solve a problem, lacking wealth and education, or begging. Is there a problem or situation in your life that is beyond your control? Are you reduced to begging God for help? God promises to help the poor of spirit.
MOURN
The word means “to wall.” This is deeper than sadness; It is despond and despair. Do you know anyone who is crushed with the disappointment of life? promises to comfort.
MEEK
Meekness means humility, a gentleness of spirit, or a mild disposition. A meek person is one who trusts God and accepts today’s circumstances as God’s best for them, even if situations in their lives are painful, frightening, frustrating, or annoying. Two of the most powerful people in the Bible, Jesus and Moses, were considered “meek” (Num 12:3; Matt 11:29; 21:5).
HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS
These people eagerly desire (or crave) righteousness. Righteousness is holy and upright living, conforming to God’s standard.
MERCIFUL
These people are kind, even to those who treat them without respect. They forgive. God is kind to us, even though sometimes we treat him and his commands without respect. Isaiah 55:7 says, “Let the wicked . . . turn to the LORD, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.” Is there someone you need to pardon? If we refuse to forgive, God will not forgive us.
PURE IN HEART
This person approaches life with innocence and blamelessness. Psa 73:1 says, “Surely God is good . . . to those who are pure in heart.”
PEACEMAKERS
These are people who want peace. They do not stir up fights or arguments. They do not look for reasons to complain or to say bad things about others. James 3:18 says, “Peacemakers who sow in peace, reap a harvest of righteousness.”
PERSECUTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS
These people are teased, harassed, harmed or bothered by others because they choose to do what is right. Jesus said, “A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:20). He said, “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven” (Luke 6:23). You will have a great reward when you suffer for the Lord.
THE BEATITIUDES
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 MERCIFIUL – 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 children of God.
BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO ARE PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS – For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.