“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:  And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,” Matthew 5:1-2

We are all familiar with the story recorded in Matthew 5-7, often referred to as The Sermon on the Mount. The first few verses are a list of statements beginning with the words “Blessed are….” I am sure that many of us have memorized these verses and are able to quote them.

Recently, I read an article which suggested that these are much more than a list of blessings which the Lord has given us. Instead, it looks like a step-by-step process to a complete life change. For the next few days, I would like us to look at them individually and consider what Jesus was teaching His disciples. Perhaps He was laying out a pattern for them to follow before He sent them out to minister to others and bring them into His kingdom.

Verse 3 – “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

When Jesus referred to the kingdom of heaven, He was not only referring to eternity with Him, but to the plan of salvation – His kingdom here on earth. Being poor in spirit means that we realize we have nothing to offer the Lord, we are destitute and have no way of delivering ourselves. Throwing ourselves upon His mercy is the first step in salvation. We realize our need and cry out to Him. Salvation is by grace, not based on any good works we may do.

Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

So, being poor in spirit, means recognizing that we are in need, we have nothing to offer, but believing that Jesus is the answer, and that He is waiting for us to reach out to Him. Those prayers never go unanswered.

Prayer: Jesus, we thank you for your great plan of salvation, that you draw us by your Spirit and that you are just waiting for us to seek your face.

Devotion by Anne Johnston

Author

Comments are closed.