The poor in spirit are “those who are not self-exalted, but candid, and of a humble disposition, not too proud to be taught, not vain and ambitious for the honors of the world” 2T 631.1. They that mourn are “those who are penitential, submissive, and who grieve over their failures and errors because the Spirit of God is grieved” 2T 631.1. The meek are “those who are gentle and forgiving, who, when reviled, will not revile again, but who manifest a teachable spirit, and not hold themselves in high esteem”. 2T 631.1. They that hunger and thirst after righteousness crave ardently, seek with eager desire integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling and acting (BLB). The merciful are “those who manifest compassion to the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed” MB 22.4 and are “partakers of the divine nature”. MA 22.2. The pure in heart are not merely “free from that which is sensual, pure from lust, but true in the hidden purposes and motives of the soul, free from pride and self-seeking, humble, unselfish, childlike”. MB 25.1. The peacemakers are “whoever, by the quiet, unconscious influence of a holy life, shall reveal the love of Christ; whoever, by word or deed, shall lead another to renounce sin and yield his heart to God”. MB 28.1. Those that are persecuted for righteousness’ sake are make to run or flee, put to flight, drive away, to be mistreated, suffer persecution on account of integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking, feeling, and acting. (BLB).
So how can I receive divine favor and protection? Well, I need to follow the beatitudes. I need to be humble, be willing to be taught. I need to be repentive and my heart needs to break for what breaks God’s heart. I need to be forgiving and be teachable. I need to crave a pure life and correct feelings and actions. I need to be compassionate to others and show love. I need to be childlike and unselfish. I need to show others the love of God and turn away from sin. I need to stand up for all of these things. Basically, I need to have a relationship with God. I need to reflect His character.
Not only will I receive divine favor and protection, but I will also receive the kingdom of heaven, be comforted, inherit the earth, be filled, obtain mercy, see God, and be called a child of God. All these lead to salvation.
The relationship leads to the salvation. Hmmm.
But I can’t do this on my own. It is only possible by God’s Amazing Grace.
