Matthew 5:3-12 God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the >children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. - Character is more important than competence. - To be blessed is to have God’s approval on your life. James 4:8 Come near to God and He will come near to you. The Building Blocks of Godly Character 1. Be in spirit. 2. Learn how to . 3. Be . Be meek. Matthew 11:28 For I am meek and lowly. Philippians 2:8 He humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. 4. Hunger and thirst for . Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 5. Be . John 1:14 He became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 6. Be in heart. 7. Be a . 8. Learn how to withstand persecution while keeping the right attitude. 1 Peter 1:7 So that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 5:10 After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. Matthew 25:23 Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.