Blessed by God?

I’ve never met anyone who didn’t want God’s blessings. Even those who didn’t necessarily believe in God were willing to put that aside, for the moment, if it meant that they might enjoy some blessing or perceived benefit. However, we want to be the one who defines what “blessing” means… and it usually means some financial or, at the very least, emotional improvement over their current financial or emotional state.

But, God’s greatest blessing is really not about some physical, financial or even emotional panacea. It is about HIM!

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:3-12 ESV)

How can we possibly be blessed when our spirit is poor or when we are overwhelmed with grief (mourning)? Or how does being persecuted, even when it is “for righteousness’ sake,” make us feel blessed? Because it is in those times that we become totally in need of God and not self-sufficient.

If you’re anything like me, you’re rarely, if ever, without some idea of how to deal with whatever you’re facing. In fact, we tend to take great pride in having answers. I know I do. But, that means that I am leaving God out of the equation. But, when I reach the state which these verses describe, spiritually impoverished or grieving, then I am in desperate need of God’s help and He always responds. But, why not enjoy God’s presence and blessing more often? Why not remain dependent on Him all the time?