Lessons Learned: Lesson 2- New Testament Class

Unit 1

Choice 1: Matthew 5:1-12. The Beatitudes

1. Read the footnote for Matthew 5:3 and the institute student manual Points to Ponder section: “The Sermon on the Mount Is Our Constitution for Perfection” (p. 61). Write a definition for the word blessed or blessedness.

Blessed: happy, glad, helped, comforted, favored by the Lord. People who are ‘blessed’ are making choices that better their own lives and those people’s lives that they come in contact with.

2. Read Matthew 5:1-12. Identify or mark all of the “blessed” attributes in these verses. Also, read the definitions President Harold B. Lee (1899-1973) gave for each of these attributes found in the institute student manual Point to Ponder section (pp.61-62). From these verses select three beatitudes and write a paragraph for each describing how living this beatitude has in the past or can in the future increase you happiness.

Meek-

This is one that I feel that I really need to work on. I am quick to be irritable and frustrated, especially since I started school. I think this is mainly from the amazing amount of pressure and obligations that are currently a part of my life. I think that if I can learn to be meek, that I will be less stressed and will be able to be more patient and loving with my family members, no matter when or what they are asking me something. My relationships with everyone would improve, and I would feel better about my life and my relationships.

Merciful-

I feel that this attribute is needed every single day. It is so easy to become offended over silly things or unintentional slights. It takes much more strength, self-awareness, and discipline to not be offended and to give the benefit of the doubt. I am so thankful for all the mercy that Heavenly Father has used toward me. I am so thankful for the miracle of forgiveness, and want to show that same compassion to others. Being merciful will make my life better and the lives of those around me.

Pure in Heart-

Being pure in heart is key to learning and growing in the gospel. Without this attribute you will spend your time complaining and criticizing leaders, doctrine, or certain things that are asked of you. This attribute takes constant effort and will never be fully complete in this life. We just need to do our best to keep our hearts pure and protect it from all the filth that surrounds us daily.

MORE THOUGHTS…

The eight beatitudes are:

Poor in Spirit (humble, knowing that you depend on the Lord)
Mourn (willing to mourn with others, compassionate; sad and repentant when you make a mistake)
Meek (not easily provoked or irritated; this is a strength not a weakness)
Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness
Pure in Heart
Merciful
Peacemaker
Persecuted (for the Lord’s sake; for standing up for what is right)

These attributes, if applied in our daily lives, will help us to be happier, kinder, and better people.