If we are honest, most of us would have to admit that we need an attitude adjustment. Far too often we get “out of sorts”, as the old-timers say. The question is, what attitude is conducive to a life of happiness? Thankfully we don’t have guess, nor consult with others. The Bible tells us what it takes. The greatest teacher who ever lived began the greatest sermon ever preached by giving us the “Beatitudes” (Matt. 5:1-12).
Throughout the centuries man has not only looked for a fountain of youth, but also the secret to happiness. He wants life to be better as well as longer. Sadly most people never look in the direction of what Jesus taught about the subject. For some reason they keep thinking they have a better idea as to what will bring happiness. What Jesus says in the Beatitudes isn’t complicated, but it is confusing to the natural mind. It seems to bless all the wrong people. If the world constructed a list of beatitudes it would be just the opposite of what Jesus said. The world puzzled because the Christian life is a paradox–we live by dying, get by giving, etc. That’s a mystery to the natural mind.
The word “Blessed” means “to be happy”, “to be envied”, or “to be congratulated”. It is that which man is always looking for and never finding. If you are truly concerned about this, I challenge you to spend some serious time studying the Beatitudes. What you will discover is this– true blessedness is a right relationship with God which results in rejoicing. That is made possible only by entering the Kingdom of God by being born again, trusting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. He never fails to keep His promises and satisfy His people. Don’t be deceived by the vain empty promises of the world. Only Jesus can satisfy the longing of your soul. In Him you are blessed in deed! —HDS
