Building the Blessings Part IV
Matthew 5
Today, we will finish looking at the blue print for the house that God blesses. The furnishings of the building are found in Matthew 5 verse 9, blessed are the peacemakers. What does this mean? What is peace based upon? Well, the peace that is mentioned here comes from two root words meaning lurker and squeezer. Verses come to mind, one being that God tells us to be wise as serpents and gentle as doves. We are to know the scripture and speak it but in a manner, that brings honor to God.
You cannot have peace without truth. If peace is built upon anything else, it is a false peace and will not last. Truth is God’s Word and it alone shall set you free. Therefore, when seeking peace, we must use God’s Word and principles.
In addition, if peace comes through Christ and Him alone, than blessed are you when you witness for you are spreading peace. The Bible tells us that a wise person wins souls. Here we learn that we are blessed when we spread or make peace.
Notice lastly that it says blessed are the peacemakers, not keepers. Many Christians want to sit in and enjoy peace. A peacemaker has this idea of seeking situations in which the Lord can bring peace. For guidance in bringing peace to fellow brethren we must look at Matt. 7. When we bring peace through Christ, we shall be called the children of God.
Finally, the yard needs to be done for the building to be complete verse 10, blessed are they which are persecuted. This is one that we do not like to dwell on, however, Christ was very clear that when we follow Him, we will be persecuted. Look at John 15. The world hated Christ first for several reasons. He is truth, He is Light, and He convicts and will one-day judge if we turn not to Him. Therefore, when we speak the truth in a wise yet gentle way, we bring persecution upon ourselves.
Does this mean that if we are not persecuted, we are not living the godly life? If friendship with this world is enmity with God and we are blessed when we are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, than yes.
For when we are persecuted, we shall see the kingdom of heaven. This is not talking about when we die for that is a given for all children of God. This is talking of living in the kingdom while on earth. Are you experiencing the kingdom on earth? Do you have the peace and strength of God in your life all the time? This is what building a godly structure is all about. It is up to you.