Gen 5:1–32, Matt 5:1–48, Eccles 1:12–18

Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him. Genesis 5:24 (ESV)

Enoch stands out from the crowd in this genealogy because of one thing, he had a close relationship with God we should learn from his example and walk closely with God

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:6 (ESV)

We should have an appetite for God, his righteousness and for his word, if we don’t have an appetite for God then we really need to ask God to revive our hearts or to change or appetite

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (ESV)

We make our light shine by doing good works to the glory of God and in God’s name.

For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20 (ESV)

Our righteousness must come from the heart, it must be genuine and true not just external observance. This is only possible though the imputed righteousness of Christ through the Holy Spirit.

But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Matthew 5:28 (ESV)

Jesus takes us to the heart of the law and reveals the true intent of the law which is that we live lives of genuine righteousness from our hearts not just externally. Our hearts are an open book before God, we must walk in honesty and purity with joy.

But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.    Matthew 5:39 (ESV)

Retaliation is forbidden.

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Matthew 5:44 (ESV)

This is not possible without Gods help. Jesus is asking us to do something unnatural for our flesh here so we need the help of the Holy Spirit.

This is already taught in the Old Testament but traditions had built up over the years saying that enemies should simply be hated which was never Gods intention for his people.

And I applied my heart to know wisdom and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also is but a striving after wind. Ecclesiastes 1:17 (ESV)

This is a fruitless and futile task, we need to pray that we are not running after the wind but that our lives find their true purpose in God.