Matthew 5:1-12 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 5:1-12 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 5When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Verse 2Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
Verse 3"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Verse 4"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Verse 5"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Verse 6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Verse 7"Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Verse 8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Verse 9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Verse 10"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Verse 11"Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Verse 12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Devotion
A study was once conducted on what people do when lost while driving. 100 men and 100 women were unknowingly routed through a “Road Construction Area” with unclear detours routes that caused them to get lost quickly. When the participants realized they were lost, only 10 men and 21 women stopped at the first opportunity to ask for help.
This is no joke. The point is that most people placed in this particular situation would rather keep driving knowing they were lost rather than admit they need help. In our “do-it-yourself” age, this may be admirable. But in God’s economy, it isn’t the way to happiness. To know the happiness of the gospel, one must first admit a need at the doorstep of God’s kingdom. We must first be aware of God in our lives, God’s ultimate power, and our dependency upon God. Then we’ll know the blessings that God promises.
Prayer
Help me, Lord, to admit my need for you. Help me to see that you are the one who brings happiness, that you turn everything the world teaches on its ear. I praise you, Jesus, for the blessings you bring when I am most in need, most empty and most helpless. I thank you for your grace. Amen.