Read: Matthew 5:1-16 God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth (v. 5)   My daughter and I were savouring a school musical performance we’d just witnessed while walking to our car. Our happiness came to a screeching halt, however, as we watched a man approach a waiting vehicle and criticise the driver for failing to pull forward far enough into the student loading zone. The verbal onslaught was brief, but painful, particularly because it took place in the context of Christian community. Individual rights and freedoms can be a blessing. We can’t underestimate, however, how a world indoctrinated with individualism, consumerism and entitlement can skew our vision. Living in surrender to Jesus, the gospel calls us to humbly serve and love others as He did. Reminding us that the humble will “inherit the whole earth” (Matthew 5:5), Jesus challenges us to believe our greatest sense of fulfilment begins with the death of self. It’s a message that goes against our very nature. The greater evidence of strength isn’t in our ability to demand what’s our perceived right, but rather in our ability to demonstrate mercy (v.7). Anger and frustration can be legitimate responses in certain situations, but they become a problem when we use them as an excuse to behave poorly towards others (Psalm 4:4; Proverbs 14:29). Our words matter, but what divides light from darkness is our choice to use them as agents of reconciliation (Matthew 5:16; James 1:26). Proverbs 18:12 reminds us, “Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honour.” Serving a Saviour who “took the humble position of a slave” (Philippians 2:7), let’s remember true power doesn’t come in what we demand of others, but in what we freely offer because of Him. — REGINA FRANKLIN   Our Daily Journey ©2018 ODB Ministries, 3000, Kraft Ave., SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49555-0001, USA. Used by permission. For this and other materials contact ODB Ministries at 322 P. Guevarra, San Juan City (Phils.); Tel.: 722-2010.