“Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever].”
Matthew 5:3 AMP
Salvation is not a call for me to be arrogant. Salvation is a call for my service. Quite often I can look at other image bearers of God and feel in a better situation because of grace when I should really be looking to use that grace to make better their situation. And the latter needs to happen a lot more in my life.
“What happiness comes to you when you feel your spiritual poverty! For yours is the realm of heaven’s kingdom.”
Matthew 5:3 TPT
When I begin to realize that my salvation is not just a gift for me BUT a gift for all around me, then I can find happiness in sharing that gift. Too often I take a step back when I should take a step forward. Too often I feel it isn’t my place to interject God’s gift of salvation into the lives of people that really need to hear. I need to be that reminder of God’s great news by my thoughts, my words, and my actions daily.
Blessed are the poore in spirit, for theirs is the kingdome of heauen.
Matthew 5:3 GNV
Servitude to others is how I show the Kingdom here on earth. Ambassadors of God’s Kingdom are not out to prove their superiority BUT rather to take a lesser role, a servant’s role. Just as Christ humbled and served humanity in His life death, and resurrection, so I need to serve other image bearers in my life, death, and hope of resurrection in Christ.
“Blessed (Favored by God; happy; prosperous) are the humble in Spirit [Ruach], for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven”
Matthew 5:3 NMV
So, today and every day I need to not look at my gift from God as something to be lorded over others like the pagans would do. I need to not look at power as something to acquire for my own glory. I need to look at position as a means to bringing others the blessings of God. I need to look at the gifts I am granted as an opportunity to share with others. Adopting a servant’s mind, a servant’s heart, and a servant’s role in my life is an important first step in grounding my thoughts, words, and deeds in the Way of the Lord.
“How blessed are the poor in spirit!
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.”
Mattiyahu 5:3 CJB
Grace and Shalom this week. Shalom to your home. Bless your being. The reign of the Lord is now. Be a blessing to the Lord and others.