The Pursuit of Happiness (3 of 16)

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

THE BE HAPPY ATTITUDES

Matthew 5:7-12

INTRODUCTION Mt 5:1-6

I. Show Mercy

Matthew 5:7 - “Blessed are those who show mercy, for they shall be shown mercy.”

Mt 5:6; Heb 4:14-16; Jas 2:13; Mat 18; 6:15

Portrait: “Blessed are those who show mercy.”

Promise: “They shall be shown mercy”

by other people

by God

II. Pure in Heart

Matthew 5:8 - “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”

Ps 51:10; 119:9; Ezek 36:26

Portrait: Blessed is the person who is pure, holy, undefiled, with a sincere desire to honor and obey God

Promise: “They shall see God”

III. Peacemakers

Matthew 5:9 - “Blessed are the peace–makers, for they shall be called the Sons of God.”

Jas 1:19; Rom 12:18

Portrait: Blessed is that person who does whatever is necessary to be at peace with others and who helps bring people into a right relationship with God and with each other

Promise: We manifest the character and nature of God

IV. Persecuted

Matthew 5:10–12 - “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Lk 6:26; 1 Pet 4:15; 2 Cor 4:17

Portrait: Blessed are those who are so anchored to their character or convictions that they cannot be bribed, cajoled, or threatened into surrender of principle

Promise: We experience the righteousness, peace, and joy of God’s kingdom.

Jesus’ Prescription For Happiness

Recognize your own spiritual needs and your dependence upon God. Don’t be satisfied with what you are.

Admit your sin, mourn over it, and seek the comfort and strength of God.

Don’t demand your rights but be humble, gentle, and teachable.

Develop an intensive desire for God and His will – hunger and thirst after righteousness.

Show mercy to others – do not be harsh and judgmental but deal gently with others.

Live a life of purity and holiness, undefiled by sin, with a sincere desire to honor and obey God.

Do whatever it takes to be at peace with others and to bring others to a right relationship with God and each other – be a peacemaker.

Be so anchored to a godly character and convictions that nothing will make you compromise or surrender your principles.