“I just can’t get over it!”
Most of us, if not all of us, at one time or another have to deal with experiences in our past or current life which make us stumble in our faith or that cripple us emotionally. It could be something as severe as being
sexually abused as a child or a feeling that our parents didn’t give us the attention we needed growing up. Maybe it’s a broken
relationship or business plan gone sour. Whatever “it” is, many times these painful experiences can affect us the rest of our lives and prevent us from reaching our greatest potential, or even end up destroying us. Trying to “get over it” doesn’t work. We try and fail and “it” goes round and round in our minds, blocking us from receiving what God intends for our lives. Thankfully, there is an alternative. God can heal our pain so we can live a productive, God-approved life.
This series has been written with the hope and prayer that it will help those who feel powerless to overcome their
pain; to help unlock the key to spiritual and emotional healing, and to “get over” the painful experiences in life--past, present, and all that life may throw at you in the future.
The Beatitudes are the eight declarations made by Jesus at the beginning of his Sermon on the Mount, recorded in Matthew 5:3-12. Each one begins with the words, “Blessed are,” and continues with a statement concerning those who live in obedient and joyful unity with God. They are for those who partake in his salvation, and who have entered into his kingdom, not in its fullest sense, but as a foretaste of what’s to come.
The word “blessed” has sometimes been translated as “happy.” However, happiness most often depends on your current emotional situation. Therefore, the word “blessed” more accurately describes the spiritual harmony of a person who is in relationship with the King of the universe. This is one who is approved by Him and who is secure in understanding that he
or she shares a place in His eternal kingdom.
As Christians we live in the “already and not yet” of God’s kingdom. The Beatitudes teach us what it means to start the
Kingdom-journey and are concerned with one’s inner life and attitudes while here on earth. They teach us how to think and act and how to receive God’s riches in order to become the salt of the earth and lights on a hill. They also tell us what rewards are in store for those who abide by them. God has a purpose and a plan for you. The Beatitudes, I believe, can help you discover that purpose and plan!
I confess, before embarking on this study, I had never closely studied the Beatitudes. I think I did what many people do; quickly reading through them to get to the “real meat” of Jesus’ sermon. What a mistake that is, because unless you understand them, it is impossible to apply the rest of Jesus’ sermon to your life.
I hope you'll use this series for personal Bible study or in a group setting, because these eight declarations are absolutely life-changing! My hope for you is to make the Beatitudes your daily attitudes so you can become the person God intended you to be, and live your life approved by God!
In His loving grip,
S.A. Keith <><
Click
here to order.
If you think this series would be helpful to a
family member, friend or coworker, then please click here to
email them.
Copyright 2006 S.A. Keith - All Rights Reserved
No part of this chapter may be reproduced without written permission.
info@sundayschoolnetwork.com
(S.A. Keith is the President and Founder of
Bible-4-Life.com/SundaySchoolNetwork.com, and has spent the last fourteen years developing Christian education materials for children and adults.)
