Everyone wants to be happy. God placed that desire in our hearts so that we would look for Him, because only God can make us completely happy.
On a mountainside, Jesus taught the crowds the Beatitudes. “Blessed” means truly happy, close to God. Here is what Jesus said, and what it means for us:
- Blessed are the poor in spirit: those who know they need God. The kingdom of heaven is theirs.
- Blessed are those who mourn: God will comfort them.
- Blessed are the meek: the gentle, who don't push others around.
- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: who want what is right with all their heart.
- Blessed are the merciful: they will receive mercy.
- Blessed are the clean of heart: they will see God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers: they will be called children of God.
- Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness: who keep doing right even when it is hard.
The Beatitudes describe Jesus Himself, and they turn the world's ideas upside down. The world says happiness comes from money, fame and power. Jesus says it comes from loving God and others.