Blessed are those...

     There is a ton of events in life that we would never view as blessings.  In America we tend to view blessings a possetions.  For example feeling blessed because you just got a new phone.  Don't get me wrong that is something to be grateful for and a blessing.   Realizing that a blessing is something that brings you closer to God is still changing my life everyday.  The key to knowing what blessings are is in Matthew 5:3-12.

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

As Christians we find joy in Christ!  Mathew found that joy as well and so did Paul.  They were persecuted, hungry, mourned, and so much more yet even in those moments they see God as being worshiped and worship Him through it all.  A blessing isn't only your material possessions. 
A blessing is anything and everything that can bring you closer to God.

                                                                                      ~Lizzy