Disciples Learn Paths of Blessedness

This part of "Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount" is often presented with a focus of mourning over our state of sinfulness, or of sin’s havoc- wreaking capabilities in general. If Jesus’ statement is restricted to such a meaning, it clearly is appropriate to mourn – both over the havoc wreaked by sin in this world and its negative impact on one’s life personally.

After all, the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23a). But that’s not the whole story. The second half of that verse says that the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (6:23b).

In this case, a mourner is to be blessed or comforted with forgiveness that comes through Jesus. This is gospel truth. But is that the whole point Jesus’ intends to make with His statement, "blessed are those who mourn"?

Tomorrow we dig into a broader, more natural understanding of "those who mourn" (such as over losing a loved one). But for today let’s appreciate the Gospel truth that Jesus releases us from the debt of sin incurred through our state of sinfulness. While it would be right to mourn over our sins, it is also right to rejoice over our Savior from sin, Jesus the Christ.

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for the free gift of God that comes to me at the cost of Your life. Thinking about it in light of today’s devotion, I mourn not only over my sin, but over the lengths You had to go to save us from that sin. Yet this mourning is accompanied with a tremendous gratitude and appreciation for You doing what we could not do for ourselves; You paid a debt that puts me in a position of receiving grace and mercy rather than judgment.

I'm grateful for the Father's Love and grateful for Your loving obedience to the Father, doing His will for my benefit at all costs. Thank You Jesus! Amen.

Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God

An explanation of the connection between Psalm 119 and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet was provided in a previous devotion.

Micro-Meditation Scripture

Psalm 119:65-72 (Teth, 9th letter)

ט‎‎‎

65. Do good to your servant
    according to your word, LORD.
66. Teach me knowledge and good judgment,
    for I trust your commands.
67. Before I was afflicted I went astray,
    but now I obey your word.
68. You are good, and what you do is good;
    teach me your decrees.
69. Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70. Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
    but I delight in your law.
71. It was good for me to be afflicted
    so that I might learn your decrees.
72. The law from your mouth
    is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
    

Micro-Meditation Action

Read the verses of the Psalm two times.  Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.

Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.

Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.

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Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point

The sense of the 9th letter Teth relates to the good of creation, even hidden goodness (such as pregnancy). This theme is scattered throughout verses 65-72.