| Deuteronomy 2:1-3:29; Luke 6:12-38; Psalm 67:1-7; Proverbs 11:27
“Then looking up at His disciples, He said: Blessed are you who are poor, because the kingdom of God is yours. Blessed are you who are hungry now, because you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, because you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you, insult you, and slander your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! Take note – your reward is great in heaven, because this is the way their ancestors used to treat the prophets.
But woe to you who are rich, because you have received your comfort. Woe to you who are full now, because you will be hungry. Woe to you who are laughing now, because you will mourn and weep. Woe to you when all people speak well of you, because this is the way their ancestors used to treat the false prophets.
But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:20-27)
Jesus isn’t commending every poor person nor is He condemning every rich one. He is drawing out those who are dependent on God, the people who do not live for this world alone, but rather seek a better city and a better way.
In contrast, He is rebuking those who draw their source of life from the things of this world. This world is passing away and so are the comforts associated with it. Don’t get caught in the temporal trap and don’t get too attached to the opinions of men. Human beings are a fickle lot and the majority will go with whatever way the wind is blowing.
Look beyond their humanity and walk the Jesus way. Some may talk bad about you, others may take advantage of you or even mistreat you but Jesus encourages us to stay kingdom minded by taking the higher road. Our identity is tied to our Lord and it demands our dependency upon and our faith in Jesus Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord, teach me to have a humble spirit and to be gracious, especially toward those who are lost. I pray to have a mindset of total dependency on You. You are faithful! In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen. |
