When I entitled my blog “Another Blessed Day” I had no idea the light God would shed on that name over time. When I committed to helping others find that there are blessings in their every day, I also wasn’t aware of what a struggle that would sometimes be. Over the past year and a half God has changed the way that I view being blessed and I want to share a little of that with you. Our usual definition of “blessed” is much different than how God defines it for us. It’s no wonder we have trouble finding blessings in our every day lives when we view it in worldly ways. I thank God for the way He has opened up the idea of each day being blessed in my life and has shown me just what He means by that.
In the following verses (also known as the Beatitudes) the word “blessed” refers to the ultimate well-being and distinctive spiritual joy of those who share in the salvation of the kingdom of God. I am writing from The Message version because I think it gives us a better, more applicable description of being blessed. As you read the following verses, think of how God’s truth compares to how you once viewed being blessed. Allow His Words to sink deep into your heart and change your perspective.
“You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule.
You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are - no more. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.
You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.
You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full’, you find yourselves cared for.
You’re blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.
You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.
You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom.
Not only that - count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens - give a cheer, even! - for thought they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company.”
Matthew 5:3-12
How blessed we are and what a change comes when we choose to view our blessings as Our Heavenly Father does!
No comments:
Post a Comment