The Pursuit of Happiness (2 of 16)

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

THE BE HAPPY ATTITUDES

Matthew 5:1–6

The Kingdom of heaven belongs to
people who know they need the King.

Introduction Jn 16:22

A. Background Matthew 5:1-2

B. Important Characteristics

1. Blessing

2. Kingdom

I. Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Lk 18:11-12; Rom 7:18; 2 Cor 4:7; Lk 5:32; Rom 3:10-11, 23; 1 Jn 1:8; Lk 17:10

Attitude: Blessed is the one who feels his spiritual needs, recognizes his own inadequacies, and declares his dependence upon God to satisfy those needs.

Blessing: We will have “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Rom 14:13)

II. Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

Job 42:6; Rom 7:24; Lk 5:8; 27:62; Isa 53:3; Jn 11:35; Lk 19:41; Heb 1:9

Attitude: Blessed is the one who mourns over his sin and longs for God

Blessing: We will be enabled by God’s presence to overcome temptation and conquer sin.

III. Matthew 5:5 “Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.”

Jas 1:21; Mt 11:28; Jn 15:11; 2 Cor 6:10; 2 Pet 3:13

Attitude: Blessed are those who do not demand their rights, but are willing to forfeit them for Christ’s sake

Blessing: We enjoy our lives more fully on this earth because we’re functioning as God intended us to function.

IV. Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”

Phil 3:9; Isa 64:6; Lk 17:10; Jn 15:5; Gen 32:26; Ps 42:1; Jn 6:35

Attitude: Blessed is the one who has an intense desire for God and His will.

Blessing: Jesus will fill us with His righteousness and satisfy us with His Spirit.