When I set out to find a Bible Study group this Fall I really did not have a particular topic in mind.  My desire was to find a group of ladies who wanted to dig deeper into God’s Word with the hope of understanding more of who He is and how He operates in our midst.

The Sermon on the Mount

The group of ladies God connected me to has been an answer to prayer and for the next 9 weeks we will be diving into one of the most treasured passages in scripture – The Sermon on the Mount.  Jen Wilkin has done a great job of putting together a study guide that really helps you dig out the meaning behind Jesus’ words that day.  The content of His message is rich yet convicting,  uplifting yet costly and we learn that everything He promised us as citizens of His Kingdom can only be obtained by His righteousness.

 

This week our ladies dug into Matthew 5:3-12 commonly known as the Beatitudes.  Being raised in a christian home and in a church environment the Beatitudes were the topic of many lessons and bible studies growing up. In all of my years, I can honestly say I’ve never dissected these specific passages – until this week.  The meat in this sermon is absolutely wonderful!!
While reflecting on the context of this sermon, Jesus’ goal and heart became clear to me through His Word.  Jesus spoke that day, not only to his disciples, but also to the crowds who gathered – mainly those who were diseased, suffering pain, possessed with demons and just really sick.  The scriptures say He healed them, then He proceeded to explain to them the qualities of now being a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven.  This passage has spoken so deeply to my heart this week.  I’ve paraphrased in my own words what these passages say to me, and my hope is that you too can see how wonderful the Blessings of being a part of  His Kingdom are.

 

The Beatitudes – My personal interpretation

I’m spiritually bankrupt in need of a Savior, and recognize that His Kingdom is the treasure I long for.

I am truly sorrowful for the Sin in my life and rest in His comforting arms.

I am submitted entirely to his sovereignty even though I may suffer pain wrongfully, I will not retaliate.

I will continue to empty myself out of fleshly desires in order to be filled with His righteousness.

Mercy is extended to me; therefore I will extend mercy to not only the sin but to the sinner alike.

The intents of my heart will be set on things that please God; in turn He will reveal himself to me in all of His fullness.

Bearing the image of my Heavenly Father, I will be a peacemaker, ultimately pointing back to Jesus in everything.

Although I may be rejected by people, talked about, lied about, cheated on and even hated – I will rejoice in suffering for his Names’ sake because there is a Great Reward that awaits me in Heaven.