Monday, February 26, 2024

Monday, February 26, 2024
Psalm 119:37
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.

What do you have your sights set on? Our focus should be on what really matters, but so often we get distracted by our phones, the media, the drama at work, and the pattern of everyday life. If you’re going to live in the world but not of the world, as Christ commands, pay attention to what you pay attention to. What you choose to focus on during your day makes all the difference in how you live it. Set your mind on the Lord, ask Him how He wants you to walk through today, and find fulfilment living out the purpose for which He made you.

Friday, February 23, 2024

Friday, February 23, 2024
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

When Peter and John were dragged before the Sanhedrin, they were strictly warned not to teach in the name of Jesus. When they persisted, the Pharisees seized and reprimanded them again, this time with a beating. But instead of getting angry, fighting back, and cursing their enemies, the apostles gave thanks to God for what had happened. They were honored to be worthy of taking a beating for Jesus, knowing that there would be rewards beyond compare for them in heaven. You may never have to face physical persecution for Christ’s sake, but every ounce of persecution you do face will be remembered when you come into His kingdom.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Thursday, February 22, 2024
Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

It’s difficult to have a pure heart; more difficult than you might think. Having a pure heart means having pure intentions, and often our intentions are more selfish than we’re willing to admit. Are you kind to others because you love them, or because you want them to think you’re a nice person? Do you pray to have a genuine connection with God, or to show off like the Pharisees did? To be pure in heart is simply this: to put Christ’s intentions above your own. To seek His will, no matter what it is, because there is nothing more important to you than Him.

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

Mercy is having the power to punish someone who deserves it and choosing not to. That kind of grace should be very familiar to you! Mercy is the entire reason you and I are still breathing, and it’s our hope for life after death. God sent His one and only Son to take the punishment you deserved; an act of mercy that won’t be outdone. You and I ought to be merciful because of the unimaginable mercy we’ve received. As Christ’s followers, the least we can do is show our enemies a sliver of the compassion and grace that the Lord had for us and continues to give us every day.

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Matthew 5:5
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

Meekness isn’t weakness, not according to Christ. Moses was meek and lowly, having run away from his birthplace of Egypt, and refusing to go back out of fear. He wasn’t a fearless leader or a charismatic public speaker, but in obeying God’s calling, he became the voice of the children of Israel. God loves using the small to accomplish what the “strong” never could. Remember that the twelve disciples, heroes of the faith, were once but fishermen and tax collectors.

Monday, February 19, 2024

Monday, February 19, 2024
Matthew 5:3
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

The “mighty in spirit” think they can make it without God, but the poor in spirit recognize that they aren’t getting anywhere without Him. We all share the same sinful condition, but not everyone looks inwardly to see it. If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll likely see a lot of rottenness when you examine your character, and a lot of sin when you reflect on your past. This should cause all of us a degree of grief and regret, but not despair; Christ promises that the kingdom of heaven belongs to the poor in spirit, because they are the ones who rely on His goodness above their own.