The Blessed Life: Blessed Are the Hungry

Text: Matthew 5:1-6

All of us know the feelings of being hungry and thirsty because this is part of being human. Jesus, though, uses these very familiar words and feelings to convey a much deeper spiritual truth that we need to ponder and practice in our lives. Much of the stagnation and complacency in the American Church, and in so many of our lives, is because we do not know what it means to hunger and thirst in this way. Jesus’ simple illustration of spiritual hunger and thirst will have a profound impact if we take it to heart and apply it. We invite you to listen today to be encouraged and challenged to consider what you truly hunger and thirst for today.

The Blessed Life: Blessed Are the Meek

Text: Matthew 5:1-5

Many view meekness as weakness and conclude that if they live humbly, then they will be walked all over. However, Scripture shows that meekness is not weakness at all. It is actually great strength gained through a relationship with Jesus. The words “meek, gentle, humble, and mild” often seem soft and unappealing, but Jesus shows us that these traits belong to those who are empowered by the strength and control of God. When we recognize that meekness is about our relationship with God and our response to Him, it suddenly changes everything. We invite you to discover this vital beatitude and consider how it is being applied in your life today.

The Blessed Life: Those Who Mourn

Text: Matthew 5:1-4

In Matthew 5, Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount by addressing a people who were largely focused on the kingdoms of man. While they were greatly concerned about who was in control, Jesus lifted their focus higher to show what it means to live in and for the Kingdom of God. His message is still vitally important for us today because even though our feet may be walking on this earth, as followers of Jesus, our hearts and minds are to be focused on Him and His Kingdom, thus radically impacting how we live here. As He explains the blessings of Kingdom living, He unpacks 8 key beatitudes that should shape our lives today. We pray that you will listen today, adjust your life to His Word, and be blessed in the Lord!

The Blessed Life: The Poor in Spirit

Text: Matthew 5:1-3

As followers of Jesus, the Bible explains that our true citizenship is in Heaven. This means that our ultimate identity is found in Jesus, and we are called to live our lives here for His greater Kingdom. As Jesus began The Sermon on the Mount, He explained that Kingdom living does not simply determine what we are to do on earth, but it also determines how we are to live, and what we are to be like. In doing so, He described the character and attributes of those who belong to Him. For all who love Jesus and claim to live for him, then these “beatitudes” and character traits should be both present and progressing in our lives. We invite you to listen today to consider how you are practicing and progressing in being poor in spirit.