Happiness is a big theme in our time. In Dubai, there is a street called ‘happiness street’. In the UAE government they have a ministry called the ‘Ministry of Happiness’. We also have the list of happiest countries. The six variables to list the happiest countries are: income, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, trust, and generosity. In other words, the happiness is measured by these values. I do not know whether such things make you happy. Jesus says in his sermon on the mount that happiness is about having the right attitudes. He came up with eight beatitudes which determine your blessedness or happiness.

These eight beatitudes mentioned in Mathew 5:1-12 are the key for our Christian living. They are beautifully arranged so that one leads to the other. They are the traits of our faith. No one can develop these traits on their own. However, we have a great model in Jesus who lived and showed these attitudes in his life and ministry. He is more than willing to grant these traits when we follow him. By closely following Jesus, we will inherit these attitudes which will make us blessed. May the dear Lord help us to be his blessed people! God bless!

1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes
He said:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:1-12