Happiness Is...
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3 (NIV)
As I read this verse, the first thought that came to mind was how different Jesus’ list of what makes us happy is from the list we would probably create. If I were writing my own beatitudes, happiness might look like having a loving family, good friends, my cat Abby curled up on my lap, while I’m enjoying my first cup of coffee. Those are the things that make life feel warm, safe, and good.
The word blessed literally means happy. But Jesus says happy are the poor in spirit. Happy are those who mourn. Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing what is right. At first, His list doesn’t seem to make sense at all. These don’t sound like the circumstances we would naturally associate with joy or contentment.
That is, until we realize what Jesus is actually describing.
The Beatitudes are not a checklist for a comfortable life; they are a description of the Kingdom of God. Jesus is revealing what life looks like when God is King, when He reigns over our hearts, our values, and our hopes. In this kingdom, happiness is not rooted in circumstances but in relationship. It is not built on what we possess but on Who we belong to.
To be poor in spirit is to recognize our deep need for God. To mourn is to feel the weight of a broken world and long for God’s healing. To endure persecution for righteousness is to value God’s truth more than human approval. These conditions do not feel “happy” by worldly standards, but in God’s kingdom they lead us closer to Him—and that closeness is where true joy is found.
Jesus, our King, our God, and our Savior, shows us that real happiness flows from dependence on, and trust in, Him. When we stop trying to build our own kingdoms and instead live under His rule, we discover a joy that cannot be taken away by loss, hardship, or rejection. The Beatitudes remind us that God’s kingdom turns everything upside down—and in doing so, makes everything right.
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us a better way to live. Help us to trust Your definition of happiness even when it challenges our own. Teach us to find our joy not in circumstances, but in Your presence and Your kingdom. Shape our hearts to desire what You desire, and help us live as faithful citizens of Your kingdom each day. Amen.