“The whole seven rise one above another like the steps of a ladder of light, and the blessings appropriate to each grow out of the virtues described.”

“At the close of the seven BEatitudes of character comes an eighth and double benediction bestowed on the persecuted condition as a result of holiness. The whole makeup a celestial octave of benediction.”
– C. H. Spurgeon

I love the richness and depth of Spurgeon’s writings!

Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount was one of Jesus’ first teachings to the masses. In Matthew 5…Blessed are the poor in spirit; for their’s is the kingdom of heaven. (The first step of the ladder is low, and the more readily reached. Those who know their spiritual poverty are the only ones who by faith can lay hold on the true riches of grace.)

Blessed are they that mourn: for they will be comforted. (To their sense of need is now added holy sorrow for sin; this leads them to Jesus, and He consoles them.)

Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. (Those who are repentant cannot be proud, so the next blessing is to be gentle in spirit. They enjoy what they have, being content with the divine will, they possess by birthright both this world and worlds to come.)

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they will be filled. Pining for more holiness, they press forward into it, and reach it, while the self-satisfied miss it by self-conceit. The Lord will be sure and fill us if we long for the best things

Blessed are the merciful: for they will obtain mercy. They do good, and get good. Being filled with righteousness leaves no room for malice, and are loving to others, and win their love. God will show no mercy to those who show no mercy to their fellow man.)

Blessed are the pure in heart: they will see God. (Sin puts out our eyes. When our heart is pure, our spiritual eyes grow bright, and the pure and holy Lord reveals Himself.)

What could be better than that?!

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they will be called the Children of God. This is a HIGH attainment, and follows on purity: “first pure, then peaceable.” He or she who reaches it will have clear evidence of adoption into God’s household. May each one of us try to be a peacemaker in the family, in the church, and in the world.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for their’s is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are you, when others revile you, and persecute you, and will say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in Heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets before you.

The world cannot appreciate these traits of CHARACTERThe Lord delights in, hence it’s opposition and spite. Be it ours to endure hardship as good soldiers of Jesus, never for a moment flinching from cross-bearing for Jesus’ sake.
– Spurgeon’s Devotional Bible – p. 503 – “Blessed are the poor in Spirit.”

My HOPE for YOU is to find encouragement in your journey of life. Persevere!

Be resilient! Let this refining have its perfect work of character in your life.

Blessings and peace be with you!