As we continue our fast paced journey through the beatitudes we hear Jesus saying, “Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons (children KJV) of God” Matthew 5:9. Being a peacemaker is imitating our Father, Ephesians 2:14. I believe this takes on two different aspects; one is peace between ourselves, peace among men (Romans 12:18), and the second is peace between men and God as we seek to bring them to reconciliation with Him (2 Corinthians 5:20). This promises us a place in the presence of God as His children eternally. The last two blesseds are very closely connected to each other, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake” not just persecuted, but “persecuted for righteousness sake”, and “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake”. Not because we do or say some stupid things that cause people to attack us, but because we live the life of Jesus, speak the words of Jesus, do the works of Jesus daily, which brings friction from the enemy, and persecution and reviling arises. When this happens and we refuse to comprise or strike back in retaliation, but rather follow Jesus instructions to, “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad”, He then promises, “for great is your reward in the kingdom of heaven”. And notice the end of Verse 12, these will stand with the elite of God’s children.
Keys To Happiness
(continued)
-By Rose Hill
Of God’s blessings you will joyfully take,
If you are one who pace will make
Then you’re doing your part in Gods family,
And you will be with Him eternally.
Happy are you if you have been chosen,
To suffer for Christ for your much devotion.
For those persecuted will great grace be given,
And much happiness in the kingdom of heaven.
When you’re accused falsely for Jesus sake,
Be very glad for your reward is great.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission