The Beatitudes, Paraphrased/Expanded
(Matthew 5:3-10, KJV. Includes verses 11 &12)
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for their’s is the kingdom of heaven.”
Blessed — happy — are those who sense their need spiritually,
Those who feel their need of God, and trust Him continually.
Those who’re keenly aware of their spiritual poverty,
For such have the Kingdom of God within them already.
“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”
Blessed — happy — are those who grieve when they sin, and confess their sin,
Those who long to be like God, mourning wretchedness within.
Those who desire change, see their imperfection, how short they fall,
For such receive God’s grace, and His peace, for on Him they call.
“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.”
Blessed — happy — are those who’re teachable, those who are humble,
Those who submit to God in all things, and do not grumble.
Those who’ve self under control, and have the right attitude,
For such enter God’s Kingdom; they’re the faithful multitude.
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled”
Blessed — happy — are those who long for righteousness, love doing right,
Such show that God has already begun His work; they’re a light.
They’ve an inner satisfaction that nothing else can give.
Why? Because deep inside their heart they’ve let the Spirit live.
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”
Blessed — happy — are those who are kind, just, and who show mercy,
For such, those forgiven won’t forget, and to them will show mercy.
And the merciful — in the day of Judgment — will receive mercy,
For what goes around comes around — hence, it’s wise to show mercy.
“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”
Blessed — happy — are those who have desirable character traits,
Pure thoughts and motives, a heart and mind the Spirit activates.
Those who’ve forsaken sin as a ruling principle in their lives,
For such will enter God’s Kingdom, see His face when He arrives.
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
Blessed — happy — are those who’re peacemakers, and live in harmony,
Those who preach peace, pray for peace, and pursue peace actively.
Such are at peace with God, and lead others to be also,
Such are truly His children, for His character they show.
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for their’s is the kingdom of heaven.”
Blessed — happy — are those who suffer persecution doing what’s right,
All who make a stand, forsake the world, Satan’s interest invite.
For they’re assured of a place in God’s Kingdom, their futures bright.
They’re worthy of citizenship, for they’ve “fought the good fight.”
“Blessed
are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all
manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake.”
Yes, people may insult you, persecute you, lie about you,
But on your behalf — all that and more — your Saviour went through.
So, count it a privilege to suffer like Him, and for Him,
And one day you’ll sing “The Song of The Lamb,” the saved saints hymn.
“Rejoice,
and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so
persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”
Trials develop character — such, one must anticipate,
But rejoice! — knowing God works all things for His good; it’s not fate.
The sacrifice may be great, but the reward’s also great;
Yes, living in Paradise with God will more than compensate.
By Lance Landall