Matthew 5:1-11

1 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a hill and sat down. His followers came to him,

2 and he began to teach them, saying:

3 "Those people who know they have great spiritual needs are happy, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

4 Those who are sad now are happy, because God will comfort them.

5 Those who are humble are happy, because the earth will belong to them.

6 Those who want to do right more than anything else are happy, because God will fully satisfy them.

7 Those who show mercy to others are happy, because God will show mercy to them.

8 Those who are pure in their thinking are happy, because they will be with God.

9 Those who work to bring peace are happy, because God will call them his children.

10 Those who are treated badly for doing good are happy, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

11 "People will insult you and hurt you. They will lie and say all kinds of evil things about you because you follow me. But when they do, you will be happy.