THE BLESSING OF SPIRITUAL POVERTY
Jesus began this special series of teachings with the words,
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
To be poor in the spirit has more of a positive note than a negative vibe. It literally means to be poor in the spirit. To be contrite, humble and admit that you are NOT self – sufficient. It is the opposite of pride and self-righteousness.
To be poor in the spirit signifies Spiritual Bankruptcy; indicating that you understand that, because of sin, you are spiritually destitute and cannot earn salvation on your own but rather you are open to the transformation of the Holy Spirit. Those who are poor in spirit are open to being changed by God. They mourn their shortcomings and seek His help to grow.
For all these things My hand has made, and so all these things have come into being [by and for Me], says the Lord. But this is the man to whom I will look and have regard: he who is humble and of a broken or wounded spirit, and who trembles at My word and reveres My commands. Isaiah 66:2 (Amp.)
A wealthy man, proud of his achievements, visits a humble monk. The monk offers him tea but keeps pouring until it overflows. The wealthy man protests but the monk replies, “Like this cup, you are full of yourself. You must empty yourself to receive anything.”
Empty yourself so as to create room for God’s true blessings.
Meditate on this:
– What areas of my life do I rely on my own strength instead of God’s?
– When was the last time I truly felt my need for God?
– How can I cultivate humility in my daily walk with God?
Prayer:
Holy Father, I totally surrender to You – to Your will and Your ways. Help me to greatly feel my need for You and to respond with that consciousness in my daily living then I will know I am truly blessed. Amen.
You are rich indeed if you are poor in the spirit.