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In His “Sermon on the Mount,” Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). Did you see that? Read it again just to make sure you got it right. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” There you have it; what Jesus said was blessed are those who mourn; He didn’t pronounce a blessing upon those who moan!
So why do we do it so often? Why are we such “moaners‘?”
I know life is difficult, and few of us will escape deep “scars” if we live long enough. But if we have Jesus, there’s no reason to “moan.” Whatever our trials might be, we possess surpassing grace! Although the apostle Paul. had a “thorn in the flesh,” the grace of God was sufficient for him (2 Corinthians 12:7-9).
Life may give you a reason to mourn, but don’t let it turn you into a “moaner.” When tempted to wallow in your problems, put things in perspective. In Jesus, even the worst possible circumstances you could ever imagine happening to you are only temporary.
Give it some thought, and then give thanks to God for all your blessings!
Steve Higginbotham
Karns church of Christ
Knoxville, TN