Matthew 5:3-13

3 "Blessed are those who recognize they are spiritually helpless. The kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

4 Blessed are those who mourn. They will be comforted.

5 Blessed are those who are gentle. They will inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for God's approval. They will be satisfied.

7 Blessed are those who show mercy. They will be treated mercifully.

8 Blessed are those whose thoughts are pure. They will see God.

9 Blessed are those who make peace. They will be called God's children.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing what God approves of. The kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

11 "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, lie, and say all kinds of evil things about you because of me.

12 Rejoice and be glad because you have a great reward in heaven! The prophets who lived before you were persecuted in these ways.

13 "You are salt for the earth. But if salt loses its taste, how will it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled on by people.