Last week we talked about the attitudes of happiness that Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount (or the Beatitudes). Eight positive statements about choosing God's way to live life. In this second attitude adjustment Jesus reminds us first of all that life is difficult and the to mourn is a part of life. He doesn't try to explain suffering but he tells us how to deal with it.
First, know that God is with us. (Psalm 34:18). God is aware, God cares, and God will help (Job 13:27, Nahum 1:7, Hebrews 4:16).
Second, let go of hurt (Isaiah 43:18). So often we repress hurt, rehearse it, and resent it. Jesus invites us to release it (Psalm 10:14).
Third, Jesus invites us to rely on God's resources. What happens many times is that humans turn to alternative hurt relievers: drinking, drugs, entertainment, thrills, and many other escapes. What God tells us is to try His way: a. Take time during your day to listen for His voice; b. Spend time in the Word and let it comfort you; c. be with God's people - healing nutritious helpful people; and d. receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13).
What can you do today to help? Three things will help deal with grief, sorrow, and pain.
1. Invite the Spirit of the Living Christ to dwell in your life now.
2. Connect with/or connect more deeply with the church family.
3. Give yourself away in service to others - stuff, things, material goods will ultimately mean nothing but people matter to God and will ultimately bless you and heal your hurt.
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