When we ask to be blessed, it should be exclusively on God's terms. What God has done in our lives is the best preparation for our future responsibilities.

We bless God through joyfully singing psalms, praising Him and obeying His Commandments, having His word written on our heart..

Christ's followers should be caring shepherds, invested in the success of the flock they serve, cheering them on and rallying them to perform at their best.

Matthew's encapsulation of the Beatitudes, the essence of Jesus Christ's teaching, contains the foundation of His teaching through the entirety of His ministry.

What is it to be poor in spirit? This attribute is foundational to Christian living. Those who are truly poor in spirit are on the road to true spiritual riches.

Happiness is a by-product of our response to God's calling, coupled with our determination to connect with the Father, the Son, and the whole spiritual family.

Joy is more than happiness. God gives a superior kind of joy through the action of His Spirit in us that far exceeds mere human cheer and well-being.

Being poor in spirit is a foundational spiritual state for qualifying for God's Kingdom. Poor in spirit describes being acutely aware of one's dependency.

The word 'blessed' in the Beatitudes means happy from within, not dependent on circumstances. It comes from having God's spirit and hope for the future.

Without God's Spirit, the fruit of joy is unattainable. Godly joy buoys people in the midst of grave trials, providing hope for a glorious future.

The Days of Unleavened Bread define our responsibility in God's plan to purge out habits, attitudes, and teachings that do not conform to God's way.

The inalienable right to the pursuit of happiness can only be realized when we live in gratitude for Our Creator's purpose for us.

The Hebrews perceived color differently than we do, assigning symbolic significance to a number of different colors as they associate with concrete objects.

We are obligated to show compassion and mercy to all, refraining from gossip, exercising righteous judgment, forgiving others and applying the Golden Rule.

Joseph's example proves that even the most difficult temptation can be resisted and overcome, though this skill must be developed incrementally.

The Catholic Church places great importance on Mary, to the point that many Catholics are pushing for Mary to be recognized as 'Co-Redemptrix!

The more we are given (and thus privileged), the more is expected from us. It is the responsibility of leadership to take care of those less privileged.

Most people think the fourth commandment is least important, but it may be one of the most important! It is a major facet of our relationship with God.