Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:1-12 (CSB).
When he saw the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. “You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Jesus teaches in verse 5 “blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth”. This might sound strange to our strength based society, but it is an important lesson to learn. Jesus speaks of the confidence we are given when we submit to God’s will.
In some translations this verse reads “blessed are the meek’. Meekness isn’t weakness, it is the realization that we can’t accomplish our purpose without God’s help. We are meant to draw our strength from Him. Philippians 4:13 tells us “I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me”.
Confidence in Christ, a humble heart and a life surrendered to God is the way to salvation. Jesus says “no one comes to the Father except by me” (John 14:6). When we humble ourselves before the Lord we are blessed to be His children, and called to share His love with the world.
Gracious God, in You we find our example, our energy and our peace. Bless us to go in Your name to make disciples of all nations. Amen.
