A CLOSER LOOK AT THE BEATITUDES

Let’s take a deeper look at the Beatitudes—Jesus’s declarations of blessing that turn traditional religious thinking upside down.

BLESSED ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT Those who recognize their deep need for God. They understand their limitations and dependency, and that humility opens the door to the kingdom of heaven.

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN Those experiencing pain, loss, and devastation. They are intimately acquainted with the brokenness of this world and the painful effects of sin, and God promises them comfort.

BLESSED ARE THE MEEK In a world built on advancement, status, and power, God speaks blessing over those who do not seek control. The meek are humble, gentle, and grounded, and they will inherit the earth.

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS Those who deeply desire to know God and to live rightly in His eyes. Their longing is not for personal gain but for justice, holiness, and truth, and they will be filled.

BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL In cultures where power is often displayed through dominance and lack of compassion, God blesses those who choose to extend mercy and grace. These are the ones who forgive, who empathize, and who act with compassion. They, too, will receive mercy.

BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART Those whose intentions are sincere and undivided. Their hearts are not tainted by selfishness or manipulation but are centered on God and the good of others. They will see God.

BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS Those who actively work to reconcile people to one another and to God. They are not passive but intentional in their pursuit of unity and healing. They will be called children of God.

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO ARE PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS Those who suffer for doing what is right, for standing with integrity in a world that often rewards compromise. Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

BLESSED ARE YOU WHEN PEOPLE INSULT YOU, PERSECUTE YOU, AND FALSELY SAY ALL KINDS OF EVIL AGAINST YOU BECAUSE OF ME Even in rejection, slander, and suffering, Jesus calls his followers blessed, not because of the pain itself, but because their lives reflect Him.

Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.