In this episode of the Becoming More Like Jesus podcast, we continue our journey through the Beatitudes by exploring Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8)

What does it really mean to be “pure in heart”? Is it about rule-following and outward behavior—or something deeper?

Together, we unpack how Jesus shifts the focus from external appearances to the condition of our inner world. Through His challenge to the Pharisees and the powerful imagery of a clean cup, we’re reminded that true transformation begins within. Purity of heart isn’t about perfection—it’s about aligning our minds and desires with Christ so we can recognize His presence in our everyday lives.

This episode also gets personal, reflecting on how patterns of sin, pride, comparison, and anxiety can cloud our ability to see God at work—and how returning to a life of integrity, prayer, and Scripture brings clarity and closeness with Him again.

You’ll walk away with practical rhythms to pursue a pure heart, along with encouragement to keep going, even when it’s hard. Because the promise still stands: those who truly desire God will see Him.

Let’s pursue a heart that longs for Jesus above all else.

This week, we look at how Jesus promises that the merciful will be shown mercy. What does Jesus mean when He says merciful, and how does it apply to us in our day? We'll look at Jesus' example when He calls Matthew to follow Him in Matthew 9 and what it may look like for us to be challenged to show mercy in the same way Jesus does.

In this episode of Becoming More Like Jesus, we continue our journey through the Beatitudes by exploring Jesus’ words in Gospel of Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

What does it really mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? Is Jesus talking about perfect rule-following, or something deeper?

In this conversation, we explore the biblical meaning of righteousness—living in right relationship with God and with others. Looking at Jesus’ teaching throughout the Gospel of Matthew, we see how He challenged the rule-focused righteousness of the Pharisees and called His followers to something far greater: hearts that truly long for God’s Kingdom.

Together we’ll reflect on the tension between rule-following and genuine transformation, the danger of focusing on others’ faults instead of our own hearts, and what it looks like to truly desire a world shaped by God’s ways.

When we begin to crave right relationship with God and others the way we crave food and water, Jesus promises something remarkable—we will be satisfied.

Join us as we continue learning what it means to live the upside-down life of the Kingdom and become more like Jesus.

BibleProject Article: https://bibleproject.com/articles/what-does-it-mean-hunger-and-thirst-righteousness/