When we hear the word blessed, most of us think of material increase or a carefree life without struggle. Yet, just because people have plenty of material goods or seemingly no major problems, living may feel quite commonplace- not blessed. Jesus offers so much more to those who call on His name when He proclaims, “Blessed are you.” Whether our circumstances are easy or hard, Jesus wants to bless us with His favor. This priceless blessing enables us to remain stable in Christ, as He continues to work more humility, meekness, mercy, and peace into our hearts and souls. He desires to lift us above our outward conditions and give us a life of joy, satisfaction, and contentment that circumstances cannot take away. Jesus also tells us that this state of blessedness is to be envied and desired. To be blessed of God is a supernatural miracle that He wants to bestow on all of His children.

“Blessed[happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous-with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions] are the poor in spirit. Blessed are the meek. Blessed are the merciful. Blessed are the makers and maintainers of peace” (Matthew 5: 3a,5a,7a,9a).