Life is NOT about the QUANTITY of things we do, the “exploits” we have, and the pleasures we keep pursuing. It IS about the “QUALITY” of our daily walk in life and our daily walk with God. And this, I believe, is so much what the Beatitudes are all about.
You’ll notice that each of these attitudes that Jesus tells us will bring fulfillment to our lives is an OUTWARD attitude toward others, as well as an INNER strength.
Matthew 5:3 (TNIV)
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
This is the OUTWARD ATTITUDE: What Jesus is saying is, “blessed are those who recognize their utter dependence on God.”
This is the INNER STRENGTH: He is saying “Blessed are those who truly trust God and go to Him FIRST for all things in their lives rather than as an afterthought or last resort.” Trust doesn’t always come easy but once we gain it, it is certainly a strength.
Matthew 5:4 (TNIV)
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
This is the OUTWARD ATTITUDE: Blessed are those who truly care for others, are compassionate and care about the world they live in”. And there is strength in that. Again, it’s not easy to be others centered. It is so very often easy to be self-centered.
This is the INNER STRENGTH: What Jesus is saying is, “Blessed are those who are strong enough to recognize their own sin and who mourn it’s presence in their lives.”
Matthew 5:5 (TNIV)
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
This is the OUTWARD ATTITUDE: What Jesus is saying is, “Blessed are those who don’t always have to be on the defensive but are free to love and care for others.” There is strength in knowing who you are and not having to “prove” yourself. There is strength in treating others with kindness, humility and compassion.
This is the INNER STRENGTH: What Jesus is saying is, “Blessed are those who are humble and caring, who don’t think of themselves as above others, who don’t have to always exalt themselves.
My prayer is that we will apply these OUTWARD ATTITUDES as well as the INNER STRENGTHS to our lives each and every day. When we fall, get back up and work on it again, all the while gaining God’s strength toward a happy and fulfilling life.