The Beatitudes: Global Perspectives on the Way of JesusSample

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” 

Do you ever judge a book by the opening sentence? The first line is intentionally chosen by the author to hook you into the adventure you’re about to embark on. It can pique your interest, keep you wanting more, or maybe even make you send it straight back to the library.  

Knowing this, we can assume that the choice to use a line like, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” to start off an epic sermon was a very intentional one by Jesus. For His disciples and those listening that day, those words would’ve sounded very familiar, echoing the words in Isaiah, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” (Isaiah 66:2).  

To be poor in spirit is a heart posture of humility. It’s a radical decision to recognize our lack without God and to humble ourselves enough to know that we can’t survive on an attitude of self-sufficiency. When we posture our hearts in this way, we recognize we are finite, and He is infinite.  

When she was just 11 years old, Josiele from Brazil was diagnosed with scoliosis. Her doctors recommended she wear a back brace until she was 18. Though she felt overwhelmed by the challenges ahead, Josiele chose to live out of a posture of humility. 

“Although I need to wear this vest, I feel grateful to God because I know that many people can’t even walk,” says Josiele. “I know that maybe if I didn’t have the limitations I have, I’d be a completely different person. I know that God is the One who guides my ways and that He can make all things possible.” 

Today, ask God to posture your heart towards humility. Reflect on young Josiele’s posture towards her limitations and what you can learn from her reliance on Christ. 

Prayer: 

Father, help me to recognize that I am finite. I know that I often think I am capable of handling life on my own, but the truth is, I am lost without you. May that simple truth penetrate my heart today so that I might ever be aware of your sovereignty in my life. Amen.