Clean up your inside world

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”

This is one of about ten ways to happiness Christ Jesus expounded on a couple of thousand years ago.

Because these are truths about human nature, they last. A bit like great pieces of music remain favorites over decades and centuries; and great literature and poetry and art work long after the authors and artists have passed on -- because they embody great truths or great beauty.

So who can be pure today? I find it helps to make a conscious effort to clear away the clutter, the he-said-she-said soap operas of daily life.

When I refuse to indulge hurt feelings, refuse to react. When I can not-be-impressed by offenses, insults, anger, resentments, and ask instead, What does a totally good God who is Truth, who is Love, require of me today? And live the best I know how according to the answer.

Then it's easier to see goodness and truth, caring and respect all around.

The Message Bible puts that 2000 year-old truth in today’s language: “You’re blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and your heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.”