Against the grain

In listening to Jesus, much of what He is saying (see Matthew 5) goes against the grain of what I have thought brings happiness. Here are some of the things that don't make sense in this world but lead to happiness in His Kingdom:

• With less of me there is more of God and his rule.


• I have to lose what is most dear to me.


• I must be content in who I am in His kingdom.


• I must be a glutton for Him spiritually. Hunger for Him more than food.


• I must care for others, not myself.


• I must get my inside world, mind and heart, right first.


• I must show others how to cooperate not compete.


• I must be comfortable that my commitment to God will provoke persecution.


• I must please Him first.

So, there it is. It is not conventional wisdom at. It is God's way.