Matthew 5:5,7,9 – Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (KJV)

An old martial arts saying was passed around: "If you are going to have to go into a den of rattlesnakes, become a rattlesnake." The rattlesnakes do not prey on each other; they attack others. This is just another way of saying that we should live and be conformed to the way of the world.

The way to survive in the world is to be tougher, meaner, and slicker than the next guy. There was a time when I personally lived my life that way and found that it was very easy to push others around, to take advantage of them, and to use them.

What a contrast is Jesus' message of love. Blessed are the meek. Blessed are the merciful. Blessed are the peacemakers. The way of the world may work for a season, but it eventually leads to unhappiness and death. Jesus wants to fill our hearts with love and joy unspeakable.

Which do you choose?

It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Full of glory, full of glory,
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Oh, the half has never yet been told.
       – Barney E. Warren

A popular commercial asks us what is in our wallets. God asks each of us what is in our hearts: Jesus or the world? Whom do you love — Jesus, or the world? As Joshua said to the people of Israel, "Choose you this day whom ye will serve." (Joshua 24:15 KJV)

Prayer: Father, regardless of what the world offers, we choose Jesus and His love. Amen.

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About the author:

Ken Bakewell <kids_karate@yahoo.com>
Russell, Pennsylvania, USA
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