Everyone who is a disciple of Jesus here on earth is promised fellowship as a member of a new family, and eternal life at the end.

That is a promise made by Our Lord and Our Friend, but He does not tempt us with dreams of outward success or benefits in this life. We are told serve as He showed us, by His example. Following Jesus there are costs. it is a question of denying yourself, and taking up our cross, and following.

Often we delude ourselves into believing that it is by our own efforts and initiatives that we are Christians. But the real reason that faith is created and discipleship established id different. It is God who has worked in us through His Word and His Holy Spirit. Both our need for God and God’s love are greater than anything we can possibly express.

The Beatitudes, which is apart of  ‘The Sermon on the Mount’, tells us we are blessed in ways that appear foolish to the kingdom of the world in which we once lived. Matthew 5 verse 3 to 10; {Message Bible}.

V3: “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule.”

V4: You’re blessed when you feel lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.”

V5″ “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are — no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be brought.

V6: “You’re blessed when you’re worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.”

V7: “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full, you find yourself cared for.

V8: You’re blessed when you get your inside world — your mind and heart — put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.”

V9: “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of complete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.”

V10: “You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. the persecution drives you even deeper into God’s Kingdom.”

Give all, not as the world gives, to receive all the world can not give.

God Bless.

O F J.