Happiness Is?

Sermon on the Mount - Part 1 Scripture: Matthew 5:1-6:4 Synopsis: In this passage, Jesus teaches principles for living a godly life.  He addresses some sensitive subjects including influencing others, the law, anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, enemies, and giving.  He starts out this teaching by making nine statements that are counter-cultural definitions of happiness.  Today we refer to these statements as “The Beatitudes.” Spark: John Wesley, in his commentary, states that there is an innate instinct in humanity to pursue happiness.    In this section of Scripture, Jesus starts with telling us how to be truly happy.  True happiness doesn’t stem from our circumstances - it ultimately comes from trusting God.  Trusting God even when circumstances don't seem to line up is a choice we, as His children, must decide to make.  Deuteronomy 30:19 is one example where Scripture tells us to choose life over death.  There are many other passages where we are told to make a choice.  In today's reading, Jesus is telling us to choose to: •       be poor in spirit •       mourn •       be meek •       hunger and thirst for righteousness •       be merciful •       be pure in heart •       be peacemakers Jesus also tells us true happiness can come from being persecuted, reviled, and even slandered falsely on His account (vv 11, 12). It ultimately comes down to choosing to trust Him, even when what's going on around us doesn't make sense.   Today's challenge - will you trust Him completely?  When life doesn't make sense, hold on to a verse that reminds you of what the Truth is!   Here are some examples: Philippians 4:19 Psalm 34:18 Romans 5:3-4 Leviticus 20:26 James 1:2-4 If none of these verses are resonating with you, ask God to give you one that's just for the situation you are facing.  He will!  Then write it down and carry it with you everywhere!  Meditate on it, memorize it, and let it transform you!