Sunday, August 5, 2018

The Poor in Spirit


Matthew 5:2-3, "Jesus began to teach them saying, 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' "

Bible's commentary, "GOD's way of living usually contradicts the world's way of living. If you want to live for GOD you must be ready to say and do what seems strange to the world. You must be willing to give when the world takes; to love when the world hates; to help when the world abuses. By serving others you will one day receive everything GOD has in store for you. The Beatitudes contrasts kingdom (eternal) values with worldly (temporary) values. 'Blessed' means more than happiness. It implies the enviable state of those who are in GOD's kingdom. The Beatitudes don't promise laughter, pleasure, or earthly prosperity, but it does enhance the joy and hope  in Christ Jesus that is independent of outward circumstances."

Matthew Henry's Commentary further explains, "Jesus corrects the fundamental error of happiness as having all the riches of this world. He gives a new notion of blessing which is quite paradoxical to the world's. His is the doctrine of eternal truth and certainty. He removes the discouragement  of the weak and poor who receive the gospel by assuring them of the eminent gifts, graces, comforts, and usefulness that even the 'least in the kingdom of heaven' whose heart is upright with GOD is happy in the honors and privileges of Heaven's kingdom."

So, rejoice, for this world's existence is but the blink of an eye compared to the eternity with Christ that awaits all those who have come to Him for their salvation in forgiveness of their sins. Have you asked Christ to forgive you? He will. You then will begin to be led of His Holy Spirit in these riches of His kingdom!


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