JESUS SPEAKING
“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Mathew 5: 3.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
In this scripture, the phrase “poor in spirit” is a reference to the attribute of humility (a precious treasure that creates joy in the hearts of all those who possess it.) Practicing humility requires acknowledging that God is the giver of all good things. The Lord provides us with our food, shelter, clothing, careers, relationships, and every other necessity of daily living. He has complete power over all of creation; the very air we breathe is a gift from Him. Although the humble offer God many praises, the prideful prefer to acknowledge themselves first; mistakenly believing that everything they possess is the product of their own intelligence and hard work.
An ancient ruler known as Nebuchadnezzar was once the mightiest king who had ever lived. His reign over the Babylonian empire began in 605 B.C. Like most powerful men, humility wasn’t one of his greatest attributes; he demanded that his subjects worship him in the manner of a God. One day as he leisurely strolled through his palace, he spoke, saying, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?” Before he was finished speaking, a voice came from heaven saying, “The kingdom has departed from you […] your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. They shall make you eat grass like oxen; and seven years shall pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses” (Daniel 4: 30 – 32.) Indeed, because the Babylonian King had failed to give God the credit for his possessions, he slipped into madness and began acting like an ox for seven years; eating grass in the fields.
As believers, we must avoid making the same mistake. Instead, we must acknowledge that all good things come from God; that every possession is a blessing and a gift. Those who desire to enter God’s kingdom would do well to continually honor Him. Practically, Christian humility can be expressed through prayers of gratitude offered to God daily; we can also say grace before meals and praise the Lord in our private time and during worship services. Tithing is another acknowledgement of God’s goodness. Ultimately whatever form of thankfulness we choose to offer, it should come from the heart; and from a deep appreciation for everything that God has so graciously given us.
“Lord Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your many gifts and provisions; for our food, our clothes, and our homes (to name a few.) We recognize that all good things come from You. Help us to maintain a spirit of gratitude and humility. Cleanse our hearts of pride, that in lowliness we might better serve You and our fellows. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
Jesus Speaks 