The Pursuit of Happiness

God sometimes tests our mettle. He puts us in situations where we feel insignificant, or we suffer a deep loss. We might doubt our right standing with God, be tempted to be unmerciful, impure, not stand up for what we believe, not walk the talk, hate people who talk bad about us, and so live in immaturity of mind and character, and the result is unhappiness. On the other hand. the road to spiritual prosperity and happiness is outlined in Jesus' words below. (paraphrased)

Happy,to be envied, are the humble, who rate themselves insignificant, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven! (Boy, do I really like being insignificant everyday, not want to be in the limelight, think it is ok to be sidelined, wait in the wings, to play a supporting role or be the second fiddle?)

Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted! (I didn't know that the way to be comforted was to mourn- He promises to turn it into dancing, because joy comes in the morning!)

Happy, are the meek - mild, patient, long-suffering, for they shall inherit the earth! (That's downright painful, but it sure does pay off in the long run!!, I blush when I think of my intolence, impatience, and "God I want it now" attitude)

Happy are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness - uprightness and right standing with God, for they shall be completely satisfied! (Do I burn with a desire to be upright as often as I get hungry or thirsty, and walk-tall knowing that Jesus alone can make me righteous?)

Happy, are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy! (Would I want to recieve the same tip that I give someone?)

Happy are the pure in heart, for they shall see God! (If my eye is pure, then there is light for my whole being- if not, I am groping in a darkness that elipses God)

Happy are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
(Do I leave a situation more peaceful than when I stepped into it? Am I doing my best to make sure I have no enemies?

Happy are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake - for being and doing right, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven! (This is surely not the route to popularity, but it sure is the way to be happy)

Happy are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account. ( I will feel tempted to have a pity-party, and to be bitter, and seek to clear my name, but I must choose to be happy)

Verse 48: You, therefore, must be perfect growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

To be virtuous, integrous, mature in mind and character should be my goal.