Say What? How to Be Happy, Pt. 2

1. Garry shared his elementary school dream of living on a houseboat with his best friend and eating crab all day. What was a dream you had growing up?

2. When you hear that someone is “meek”, what thoughts come to mind? If someone called you meek how would you respond?

3. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matthew 5:7) -

Garry defined mercy as showing compassion for people who are in need even though they don't deserve it. How would you define mercy? Do you find it easier to dispense mercy or to receive mercy? Why?

4. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8) -

Think of someone you know whom you would describe as “pure in heart.” What are the distinguishing marks of that person’s life?

5. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. (Matthew 5:9) -

What are some of the costs of being a peacemaker? What are some of the rewards of being a peacemaker?

6. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:10) -

Scottish theologian Sinclair Ferguson said this about the beatitudes and persecution: "When the beatitudes make up our character, the character of citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven, we as followers of Jesus will be persecuted for walking the radical, 'narrow way' that leads to life, in marked contrast to the broad way that leads to destruction." What reasons did Jesus give us to rejoice when we are persecuted?

Reread the beatitudes and insert your name in each—“Blessed is _______”

Then think of specific situations where you could put the beatitudes into practice in your life.