The Beatitudes

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus described the traits of a person who is “blessed.” The world looks for happiness in many different places—in relationships, in money, in things, and in popularity. But these things do not really bring us happiness. Real happiness is found only in having a relationship with Jesus and following His teachings.

Read Matthew 5:1-12

God's way of giving usually contradicts the worlds. If you want to follow Jesus, you must be ready to say and do what seems strange to the world. You must be willing to give when others take, to love when others hate, and to help when others abuse. In following Jesus, you will one day receive everything, while others who follow the world's values will end up with nothing. Jesus’ way will bring happiness and life, while the world’s way will bring misery and destruction. Real happiness is found in Jesus.

Family Discussion

• What does it mean to be blessed? (the spiritual joy we have when we have a relationship with Jesus) 
• How can you tell if Jesus is control of your life? (When our lives are yielded to Him, obeying Him, our lives will show forth the will and character of our master - Jesus - as He leads and guides us. Though, there may be times we rebel, we are happiest when we follow Him and see His plan and purpose fulfilled in our lives.) 
• Jesus said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Is it possible to satisfy a thirst for God with something or someone other than God? (No) 
• Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers." How can you be a peacemaker? 
• Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit." What does it mean to be 'poor in spirit?' (To be “poor in spirit” means that we see ourselves as the Lord sees us - in need of a Savior and admitting that we need God's help and forgiveness for sins.) 

Memory Verse
Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. Matthew 5:12a