Are you someone 'poor in spirit'?

Arguably, the most powerful teaching of Jesus is the sermon on the mount found in Matthew, chapters 5-7.It begins with a set of eight beatitudes or “blessings” for those who are “poor in spirit.” The first beatitude is the foundation for the whole sermon preached by Jesus and the key to any person who wants to be blessed by God.

So, what does it mean to be poor in spirit? Simply put, “poor in spirit” describes someone who has reckoned themselves spiritually bankrupt before God, one who embraces they have nothing to offer God in the way of goodness, good works or any type of self-righteousness … they come to Jesus spiritually bankrupt.

It is here in this humble surrendered state one finds worth, merit, and forgiveness of all sin through faith in Christ alone. It is here one receives the free gift of eternal life. Now, with a new heart from Jesus and the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit one can learn to love God and others like never before. This is the grace of God at work, where Jesus gets the credit and glory for the transformation only He can produce in a new believer’s life.

Christians who forget to stay poor in spirit or surrendered to Jesus consistently, give the church a well-deserved bad rap, because you and I are incapable of changing ourselves or doing anything productive in our own power and strength.

Remember to stay poor in spirit and let God shine through you by constantly praying what Jesus prayed, “not my will, but Father yours be done, in and through me each and every day” (Matthew 26:39)

Dr. Steve Brown is pastor at North Summit Church. He can be reached at s.brown@northsummit.com.