When we take the transformation that has happened within us and try to bring about the Kingdom of God in a way that Jesus describes throughout the Sermon on the Mount, we're bound to face persecution from those who think we're doing it wrong. But having encountered Christ, and experienced His righteousness and resulting transformation in our life, we are called to take that message into messy places even though we risk our "nice, neat" way of doing Church. And when that happens, Jesus says you're living the good life! His way is a better way.

From Series: Road to Recovery | More Messages from Josh Huff

From Series: "Road to Recovery"

We find ourselves in the midst of construction season, when orange cones and delays become a daily part of our lives. Without directions--or the right signs to help us through life’s detours--we can easily get lost, end up on roads that lead us away from our destination. When we are off course spiritually, Jesus provides simple, clear directions that help us navigate life’s potholes, find healing from our hurts, and the power to overcome harmful habits. Using Jesus’ teaching from his first recorded “sermon,” Road to Recovery walks us through the Beatitudes and gives us eight turn-by-turn directions to get us back on the right road for our faith journey.

The word used for mourning in the Beatitudes means a greatest/deepest expression of sadness. The scripture says we are blessed when we profoundly and deeply mourn, but this Beatitude is not simply about being sad. It is about what you are mourning and who you will seek to find comfort. There is a connection between being poor in spirit and mourning. Blessed are those who are desperately sorry for their own sins. We are broken for God. We mourn not only our sins, but we're desperately sorry for the sins of the world.

Scripture References: Matthew 5:1-12, Romans 6:1-4

From Series: Blessed | More Messages from Paul Mills