november 22, 2012 Be Thankful, Cause Change

Be Thankful, Cause Change Luke 6:22 What happiness it is when others hate you and exclude you and insult you and smear your name because you are mine! HERE LUKE records some of the “Sermon on the Mount”, more commonly referred to in Matthew 5-7. This is one of Jesus’ “be happy” sayings or Beatitudes. It doesn’t fit our thinking of popularity does it? Have you ever felt left out or even abused because you talked about Jesus and stood for what was right? Then be happy about it! Yes, that is what Jesus is teaching. And it is a wonderful lesson to learn. One of the most difficult places to come to in our lives is the place of “eternal view”. In other words, when we decide what to do or say, we need to understand how our words and actions will affect our eternal view or someone else’s eternal life. For example, if you are ostracized because you take a stand for Jesus and are sad about it, no one will care. If you have a smile on your face and show joy amid trouble, someone will say, “What makes you so happy?” And you can say, “Jesus makes me happy, and here’s why.” In your response you have the opportunity to affect someone’s eternal life. You show them in your attitude that you really believe Jesus’ words. Yes, be happy in Jesus. Be thankful on this day that you have Jesus to trust and guide your life. Be thankful you have Jesus to assure you of all you need. Be thankful in your heart and mind toward the One who has saved your soul, and you will affect eternal change in people’s lives. It’s True! A happy, thankful attitude can change someone’s life—perhaps your own.