The Beatitudes are perhaps my favorite section of scripture. Just when I thought I've plumbed its depths, there proves to be more.
So, why are the "poor in spirit" blessed? An example is found in Luke 18:10-14. Two men prayed. The one who was so pleased with his own righteousness, him we could call "rich in spirit". He thinks he's so good, what need is there for salvation? He doesn't seek God's righteousness and riches because he has his own. The publican beat his chest in sorrow. "Forgive me, a sinner," he said. That is a man who is poor in spirit. And he went home justified. The Beatitudes are a journey and being poor in spirit is the first step. It is also a journey that we keep cycling through, however. It is easy to start shrugging off this part. Poor in spirit...humility?... I'm all over this! I've got humility nailed! (smirk) As we grow we have to go back remind ourselves of our dependence on God. It is all Him.
By the way, there will be some questions as to the role of humility in "meekness" if humility before God is in mind here. I don't want to clutter and complicate the thought right now, but we'll address the difference in the meanings soon.
So, why are the "poor in spirit" blessed? An example is found in Luke 18:10-14. Two men prayed. The one who was so pleased with his own righteousness, him we could call "rich in spirit". He thinks he's so good, what need is there for salvation? He doesn't seek God's righteousness and riches because he has his own. The publican beat his chest in sorrow. "Forgive me, a sinner," he said. That is a man who is poor in spirit. And he went home justified. The Beatitudes are a journey and being poor in spirit is the first step. It is also a journey that we keep cycling through, however. It is easy to start shrugging off this part. Poor in spirit...humility?... I'm all over this! I've got humility nailed! (smirk) As we grow we have to go back remind ourselves of our dependence on God. It is all Him.
By the way, there will be some questions as to the role of humility in "meekness" if humility before God is in mind here. I don't want to clutter and complicate the thought right now, but we'll address the difference in the meanings soon.