In the famous beatitudes of Matthew 5:3-12, Jesus reveals the keys to living a happy, satisfied and fulfilled life – something that each of us would love to have. Each statement begins with the word “blessed,” which denotes an unfailing gladness of heart that can be owned even in the presence of hardship. The first key to such happiness is being “poor in spirit” (Matt. 5:3).

To be poor in spirit is to recognize how dependent on God we are. It is not just to be destitute of all spiritual blessings, but it also includes the ability to recognize that destitution. It is to understand one’s deficient spiritual condition. It is to know that without God I have nothing and I am nothing (John 15:4-5). It is to be like the prodigal son of Luke 15, who “began to be in want” (v. 14) and “came to himself” (v. 17), recognizing the need to go back to his father’s house. It is to realize that we are spiritually dead in sin (Eph. 2:1). It is to know that without Christ we are also without hope (2:12). This first beatitude should be seen as the foundation upon which all the others will be built. It is the characteristic that initially leads us to seek for the bestowal of God’s grace.

The natural question that arises at this point is, “How can such a spiritually destitute person be considered “blessed” or “happy?” The answer lies in the last part of the statement, “For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:3). Those who humble themselves before God – those who are poor in spirit – will be led by that poverty to seek the only one who can help them (Psa. 34:8; Isa. 57:15). When, and only when, we become poor in spirit will we humble ourselves in obedience to God’s will. Once we do that, he will bless us immeasurably with all spiritual blessings in Christ (Eph. 1:3).

Are you poor in spirit?

Eddie Parrish