The word "blessing" in the Hebrew language means "to find the right
path."

God clearly spells out that path for us. As we learn to walk in it we
find it is the place where our hearts are at rest and our lives are
transformed. It is often the opposite of what we expected yet walking
there will change us and in turn change our relationships.

"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you
there is more of God and His rule.

"You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only
then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are -- no more, no
less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything
that can't be bought.

"You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. His food
and drink is the best meal you'll ever eat.

"You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full', you
find yourselves cared for.

"You're blessed when you get your inside world -- your mind and heart --
put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.

"You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of
compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your
place in God's family.

"You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The
persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom."

~ The Beatitudes from Matthew 5:3-10 (The Message)