Tags

, , , ,

I am happy. Jesus promises me that I will be.

A state of pleasure or joy experienced both by people and by God, but subject to change according to circumstances.

True happiness derives from a secure and settled knowledge of God and a rejoicing in his works and covenant faithfulness. God rejoices over his faithful people.

The word is μακάριος — makarios. It is usually translated as “blessed”. It is generally understood to mean happy in English. I’m going with that.

How happy is the man who has made the Master his trust. ~King David | Psalm 40:4

In the Jesus Manifesto (Matthew 5 – 7), he gives us a whole series of happiness prescriptions. They are powerful. From Matthew 5. Jesus starts the manifesto out with this.

  • “Happy are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
  • “Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
  • “Happy are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.”
  • “Happy are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
  • “Happy are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
  • “Happy are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
  • “Happy are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
  • “Happy are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
  • “Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”