(Week 16/2024)
A word fitly spoken is like APPLES OF GOLD in a setting of silver [Proverbs 25v11]
I trust that those who have been following this series on the Beatitutdes [Matthew 5] have been blessed, encouraged and challenged. Today we consider number 6 found in verse 8: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God”. When Jesus said these words, his disciples must have been shocked because Scripture is quite clear that this is an impossibility as explained in Exodus 33v20: “But’, he said, ‘you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live’ “. So, what is Jesus saying? He is emphasising the great truth that “the just shall live by faith”. Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” [John20v29].
The reality is that if our lives are not pure, our relationship with the Lord is negatively affected and though we exercise faith, it is like we see through a dirty window and His face becomes indistinct. Friends, if this is your experience then examine your life and discard inappropriate friendships, unprofitable activity or social media addiction which are negatively affecting your behaviour. Then you will see the Lord in all His fullness through pure eyes of faith which will provide guidance, comfort and joy even in the most difficult of circumstances.
God Bless
Graeme Greenwood.