At the beginning of His earthly ministry Jesus discussed a set of attitudes commonly referred to the “Beatitudes.” They describe ways of being blessed by God. Take a look at them from this perspective: see how these attitudes represent challenges to help you pursue and experience personal revival and a transformed life.
RELEVANCE
There is much beauty to be found in the Beatitudes. See how they represent the following challenges:
- Contrast of inward motives and outward actions
- Addresses the human conflict between natural emotions and moral behavior
- Challenges us to find God’s moral standard and Kingdom values
- Points to the need of God’s mercy and grace
- Establishes a direction for spiritual growth and development
- Provides for a balance between religious-social-economic-political issues
When you think about it, Jesus was outlining the various virtues of the new life in Christ. His focus was on heart issues and how they can be expressed outward. It was fitting that He discussed this early on before the crowds. The culture of the day emphasized performance of outward religious practices thought to earn righteousness—right standing before God.
Jesus shared a new perspective on GRACE. He spoke of the kingdom of God, and how God looks at the motivations and attitudes of the heart, not performance of religious practices for performance sake or to wipe away sin. He revealed the Father’s heart: that God prefers to extend grace; He simply looks for right heart attitudes.
REFLECT AND RELATE
Take some time to review the beatitudes in the context of the challenges listed above. Write down how they relate to your life and how you can address them. Set some goals for your spiritual growth.
REFERENCES
Matthew 5:3-11