The BeatitudesSample

Have you ever had someone in your life who seems to just give you thing after thing to do that feels completely pointless? There is no real reason behind it why, and it just feels like busy work. Sometimes we get this way with God and feel like God is giving us things to do or things not to do without any real reason. This section of the beatitudes holds a distinct parallel with Micah 6:8 that really helps show us the heart of God in His instruction for us. In Micah 6:8, the prophet is showing us what God has required of us; in Matthew 5:6-8, Jesus is showing what is brought about through following God’s requirements. That which is required of us is also that which blesses us. Acting justly will fill us. Loving mercy will bring us mercy. Walking in a pure heart allows us to walk with God. This shows us that what God asks of us is not just an arbitrary idea but instead the very thing that is best for us. God desires for each of us to have what is truly best for us. When God asks something of us, there is a distinct purpose and reason for it. God does not assign busy work for us to just do things for Him; He transforms our lives so that we can become more like Him. So in giving us these beatitudes, Jesus is asking us to do something that is truly the best thing for us.

Ask God to help grow a desire for righteousness, mercy, and purity in you. This is not something you have to do on your own. Walking with God means that He will grow these things within you. Think through these questions and ask God to help you answer them.

How can you hunger and thirst for righteousness? What is a way that you can bring justice to a broken world?

How can you be merciful? Who has wronged you that you need to forgive? In what way do you need mercy?

What needs to be purified in your heart? What do you need to work with God to root out of your life so that you can begin to see Him clearly?