Matthew Chapter 5

Read Matthew chapter 5.

To maximize this chapter you will need humility.  Reading this chapter is similar to reading anywhere in James.  You get "nailed" quickly and consistently.  You don't have to read far before you say, "Yes, that's me."  Then you read some more and say, "That's me again."

This chapter deals with it all:  behaviors, interests, pursuits, thoughts, desires, inclinations, attachments, intentions, etc.  Read chapter five and you will be exposed.  Exposure is the first step in the process of repentance.  Chapter five isn't meant to dishearten but to liberate.

Followers of Jesus behave and think differently than the world.  There is a call to daily conformity to Jesus.  So, you've fallen short?  Ask Jesus to walk you through the process of restoration.  He understands that, without Him, you'll be constantly frustrated.

• Which beatitude (5:1-12) are you most vulnerable in and struggling with?
• Which of these -- anger, apathy, adultery, animosity -- most "owns" you right now?
• Write an honest prayer to Jesus. Tell Him where you lack.  He already knows.  He wants to hear it from you.  Ask for forgiveness, insight and strength.
• Speech, thoughts and actions affect relationships. Whom do you need to visit, call or write? From whom do you need to ask forgiveness?  What action is necessary?  Will you do it? When?

The Easter Beatitude (Jn. 20:29)

Oh, the blessedness of belief that doesn't require sight!

It's not that there is no proof, no evidence.  Should you study it honestly, it will lead you to the conclusion that Christ has risen.

Thomas had been with Jesus.  He knew Him.  At least he should've known Him.  Thomas spent a bit over 3 years with the other disciples.  He should've known that they wouldn't jest about something this serious and sensitive.  And why would Mary lie too?

Still, Thomas needed more.  How marvelous of Jesus not to write off Thomas!  It's as if Jesus said, "Thomas, if this is what it takes, okay."  What love!

Jesus preferred, however, belief that didn't require sight.  That is still His way (Heb. 11:1).

So what is it you need to trust God for?  Maybe your thing isn't doubting the Resurrection.  What other doctrine are you struggling with?  What promise of God hasn't come to pass yet and the delay is driving you nuts?  What pleases God is trust, not stipulations or fleeces or "bargains."

Blessed When Insulted and Slandered (Mt 5:11-12)

Today's reading was Matthew 5-6.

1. It's the word "blessed" that seems to be out of place (it isn't). "Troubled," "agitated," "annoyed," "defensive" -- all these would make sense. But "blessed"?
2. When others speak against you, you have a choice. You can get better and rejoice or you can get bitter and retaliate.
3. Choosing gladness as your response, you position yourself between the distant past and the certain future. In the past, people spoke against the prophets. When people speak against you, know that you're in good company. In the future, God will reward you for your peaceful, joyful response. The reason it is hard to rejoice when you're spoken against is because you're stuck in the present. All you can think about is your reputation. (This is most likely pride.)
4. You're "blessed" because you lived in such a way (Mt 5:3-10) that you unintentionally provoked someone. Living the Beatitudes, you show growth, maturity and commitment. Not everyone will approve.
5. Make sure you're not giving people a reason to speak against you. Don't confuse slander with criticism. If you do or say something out of line, and someone calls you on it, view that person as a friend and not a persecutor. Thank God someone loves you enough not to leave you alone about it.