Mourning and Comforted

N.T. #32 "Mourning and Comforted"

March 22, 2023 

Matthew 5-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

I like how Tony Evans put it: We could call the Beatitudes antibiotics from God's pharmacy that can aid life transformation. Each one includes a blessing, which is the God-given capacity to enjoy His goodness in your life and to extend that goodness to others. We are spiritual beggars that are continually dependent on God. We are inadequate and insufficient apart from Him. If we are poor in spirit, we will get to see God's heavenly rule in our earthly life.

2. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. (verse 4)

The word mourn means to grieve (the feeling or the act); wail.

Comforted refers to call near; invite; exhortation; pray; desire (give).

Are we saddened by the things that sadden God? He grieves over the sin and wretchedness of the world. Jesus lamented the disobedience of Jerusalem and wept over the existence of death, which sin produced. (John 11:35)

Isaiah 61 described Jesus. He was sent to heal the brokenhearted, comfort all who mourn, provide for those who mourn in Zion. Israel was mourning and sorrowful over the exile that their sins had caused. Their attitude was one of repentance. Are we mourning over the sins of our nation?

LET IT GROW

We must not become numb to the sinful ways of people in our world. Sin has consequences, so we must pray. 

In Isaiah 61, Jesus gives a crown of beauty instead of ashes, oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair. (verses 1-3) That is what is given to those who mourn over sin and are brokenhearted over its consequences.

Our hope is in Jesus, our Savior. Grace is a gracious gift for our spiritual bankruptcy. When we repent and admit our sins, seek forgiveness, then we are comforted-forgiven. 

In Luke 18:13 NLT, the Publican beat his chest in sorrow, saying, O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner. 

Jesus said that sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

LET IT GO 

Cause us to be sorrowful over the sins of our family and neighbors.

Show us their lostness, brokenness, needs.

Use us today to bring them to the Savior and Great Physician.

Thanks be to our Comforter, the Holy Spirit.