6/6/21
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports, in 2019:
• Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 47,500 people.
• Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 44.
• There were nearly two and a half times as many suicides (47,511) in the United States as there were homicides (19,141).
The Beatitudes are qualifying statements from Jesus. Some people might find it strange, but God wants His disciples to be happy. The Lord gives His disciples clear teachings on how to be happy. Today we look at this first of eight Beatitudes from our Lord.
When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and when He was seated, His disciples came to Him. Then He began to teach them, saying, “Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever].
Happiness comes from God alone.
Happiness is given to those who recognize their spiritual bankruptcy and turn to Jesus for His restorative Spirit.
A happy disciple of Jesus will understand that with Him, life is not complete.
A happy disciple of Jesus will recognize God’s leading hand in their lives.
A happy disciple of Jesus enjoys the good life of God’s blessings. Romans 8:28 is accepted by Christians even when it does not always make sense.
A happy disciple of Jesus will look confidently to their eternal future with Christ.
Finally, a happy disciple of Jesus will live as a Kingdom citizen on earth, while waiting for the King’s return or the day they are ushered into the King’s presence.
