The Way to True Happinessنموونە

Matthew 5:7 — Blessed are the merciful

The first four beatitudes describe what characterizes the blessed ones. They are happy because they are poor in spirit, they mourn, they are meek, and they hunger and thirst for righteousness. This is what they are on the inside. Next, Jesus talks about how it manifests in their outward lives. Firstly, it is apparent that they are merciful. It cannot be otherwise. For if you are truly aware of your poverty, lack of holiness, need of righteousness, and of God's mercy in your life, then you have compassion for others. Those who are self-important, think others are responsible for their own misery, and fail to be merciful to them. What does your religion stand for? Jesus says: You are blessed if you put piety and love into practice. You are merciful if you do not condemn others who live sinful lives, but call them to salvation in Jesus Christ. You are merciful if you show forgiveness, compassion and readiness to help those in distress (Matthew 6:12; 6:14-15; 9:27).

‘Blessed are the merciful’, it sounds like a contradiction. Will the merciful stand up for themselves, and make a success of their lives? Can the merciful have a good income and possessions? Are the merciful always in a position to give generously? Maybe not, but that is okay, because God sees the heart. Jesus wants His followers not only to bear their own trials, but to act with compassion in the trials of their fellow men. Doing good to others gives you joy. For it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). You receive more blessings by doing good with your possessions, whether many or few, than by amassing more and more wealth. Giving makes us more like God, who gives to all and receives from none. Giving makes us more like Jesus Christ, who did good as He travelled around. The psalmist says, "Blessed is the one who considers the poor!" (Psalm 41:1 ESV). He who shows compassion for the poor is rewarded by the Lord. For in that way you resemble Him!