9. What quality is next singled out for blessing? Matthew 5:7, first part.
NOTE: ‘The merciful are “partakers of the divine nature,” and in them the compassionate love of God finds expression. All whose hearts are in sympathy with the heart of Infinite Love will seek to reclaim and not to condemn. Christ dwelling in the soul is a spring that never runs dry. Where He abides, there will be an overflowing of beneficence. To the appeal of the erring, the tempted, the wretched victims of want and sin, the Christian does not ask, Are they worthy? but, How can I benefit them? In the most wretched, the most debased, he sees souls whom Christ died to save and for whom God has given to His children the ministry of reconciliation. The merciful are those who manifest compassion to the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed.’ Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, page 22.
10. What is promised to them? Matthew 5:7, last part. Compare 2 Samuel 22:26.
NOTE: ‘The Lord is very merciful to His enemies. “He delighteth in mercy.” (Micah 7:18.) He is “very pitiful and of tender mercy.” (James 5:11.) A merciful spirit can only come from a godly character. It cannot be put on, but must come from the inner life. If we are genuine Christians, we shall be kindly in our dealings with others. We shall look for the best, instead of the worst, in others. We shall be slow to condemn and quick to commend. God is too big to hate people who hate Him and to retaliate against them. And He desires that this same spirit of forgiveness and mercy should be found in the hearts of all who call themselves His children.’ Taylor G. Bunch: The Beatitudes, page 59.