Read Matthew 5:8

What is meant by blessed? 

Some say it is little more than a synonym for "happy," but it is much deeper than that.

The Greek term that is translated "blessed" was used to describe two different conditions. First, it was used to describe the wealthy who, by virtue of their riches, lived above the normal cares and worries of lesser folk. 

Second, the term was also used to describe the condition of the Greek gods who, because they had whatever they desired, existed in an unbelievable state of well-being, satisfaction, and contentment.

By repeating the same word to His band of simple-hearted, loyal followers, Jesus reassured them that enviable qualities such as delight, contentment, fulfilment, and...joy were theirs to claim.

He promised that by tossing aside all the extra baggage that accompanies religious hypocrisy and a performance-oriented lifestyle, we will travel the road that leads to inner peace. 

In doing so, we become "blessed."

Excerpted from Charles R. Swindoll, Wisdom for the Way (Nashville: J. Countryman, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc., 2001). Copyright © 2001 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.