"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
Matthew 5:8
The sermon on the mount is often referred to as basics or guidelines telling and showing us how to live a Kingdom life. There is a strong emphasis on the purity of our heart. But, in the first ten verses [of Matthew 5], Jesus starts by reminding us what virtues can bring us His blessing. So, let’s ask ourselves a few questions leading up to Men’s Summit!
“3Blessed are the poor in Spirit,”
Being poor in Spirit means that you recognize you don’t provide for yourself by your own strength, goodness and righteousness, but God’s alone. Are you poor in Spirit?
“4Blessed are those who mourn,”
You may be at the beginning of giving up a sinful life. As you grow Spiritually, the Lord comes in to change the desires of your heart and comfort you in the process. Are you in mourning? Have you been comforted by the Savior?
“5Blessed are the meek,”
Meekness is not weakness, but a form of humility - strength under control. We practice this by submitting to the Creator of the world! Have you given power to Jesus?
“6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,”
As men, we know when we are hungry. Jesus calls us to be hungry for all that is holy and righteous. Are you hearing a growling for God being stirred inside of you?
“7Blessed are the merciful,”
Through His grace and love, God shows us mercy every day, relenting from His anger we deserve. If we are called to be like Jesus, we are called to be merciful! Have you shown any mercy?
“8Blessed are the pure in heart,”
If we can see God when we are pure of heart, then that means we are becoming more like Him. Do people see God in you?
“9Blessed are the peacemakers,”
Us men do not need to be right or create conflict at every chance; as men, we are called to let God use us to make peace. Are you a peace-maker or a peace-taker?
“10Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”
We may not experience it a lot here, but many Christians suffer for their faith. We should be lifting these people, these nations up in prayer. How would you hold up if you were being persecuted?
Walking out the days leading up to the Men’s Summit, how would you answer these eight questions? Start praying this over yourself:
“Lord, reveal to me what area of blessing I need to grow in. Help me to grow spiritually as Your son. Show me the blessings I do have and help me to be grateful for them. In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.”
