Mathew 5:3 (0)
August 30th, 2009 by AJ, under devotionals.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Looking at this verse, I was surprised to see that the overwhelming majority of translations still use the words “poor in spirit”.
Obviously “poor in spirit” on it’s own could be a very subjective phrase, but in light of the surrounding verses and descriptions, doesn’t it’s meaning become clear and obvious?
Mourners, meek, humble, hungry for righteousness, pure in heart, merciful, peaceable, persecuted for righteousness.
Where there is pride, self rule, selfish ambition, stubbornness, conceit and every other evil trait that appears with a strong and haughty spirit. Is that where the kingdom of God reigns? James 4 Clearly tells us God resists the proud. Here Jesus tells that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those of poor spirit.
Personally I think to be poor in spirit is a place where you come to the end of yourself, when you see the depravity of your own heart, and not with a false humility that is cloaked over pride, but a true understanding of your own insignificance. An understanding that, by your own nature, you are an object of God’s wrath. An understanding that you are incapable of balancing your debts, that you are without hope in the world.
As sad or offensive as this may seem, this is a blessed place to arrive at. It is in this place, you understand that His love or forgiveness could never be earned through works. It is in this place that you are set free from striving, you are unbound from your own temperament. It is at this place that you can truly meet the love of God. Even despite a darkened understanding, you can somewhat comprehend the insanity of His transaction. God’s only begotten Son, battered, beaten and broken, in order to save an object of His wrath. It is here that your are able and ready to receive the love of God with the upmost appreciation and gladness of heart. It is at this place that kingdom of Heaven reigns in you.