Reading With the People of God #11 Blessedනියැදිය

Focus of the month: (The Beatitudes)

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

- Matthew 5:3-12

True Mercy

As we read about how kings came to rule the Israelites rather than prophets and judges representing God’s rule over His people, we come to the reign of Solomon, the boy king. He was born after David, his father, had fought many battles to finally gain control of the land that God had intended for Israel not only to call home but build a permanent place of worship. He would not have witnessed much of the hardship that King David faced, but he would have heard of the troubles and importance that David placed on the reliance of God. It was David’s final advice to love the Lord and keep His commandments.

As a young king, Solomon followed the same path as his father worshipping in the high places that had already been established years before. He understood that judging the people of God was a great task, and when the Lord appears to him asks for the most important thing only God can grant. It is because of this decision that came from a place of love for God and His direction, that Solomon was granted not only what he asked for, but the most abundance life could offer.

As we read the Beatitudes of Christ, He continues to address the abundant life, but not in the opulence and splendor that once was Solomon’s. Jesus shares that it is mercy that brings contentment and blessing. While some may define this as offering blind compassion, throughout the message of the Bible, it means to give what is necessary instead of what is deserved.

In reading along with the people of God, how many times have we read of the mercy of God giving the children of Israel what they truly need instead of punishment for disobedience? Sometimes, they also needed punishment! In the challenge of my own life, I find God far more merciful with me than what I truly deserve. The key is following the example of David and always returning to the Lord, no matter the sin, seeking His forgiveness and restoration.

* Devotional Primer contributed by Gaylyn Mott, Teacher, Musician, Yarn Artist, Member of Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla