This is the first in a series of lessons on the Beatitudes, presented in Matthew 5.
Poor in spirit?
Yes, that is what the Scripture says. Those that are “poor in spirit” will be blessed – they will be “happy”! The original word that is translated “blessed” in the English language actually means “happy”.
It’s not up to you and your “doing,” it’s up to God and His grace.
But what in the world does “poor in spirit” mean? And what IS happiness exactly?
In this lesson, Mike begins an exploration of The Beatitudes — the “be happy attitudes,” as they have been called — beginning with a discussion of the idea of what it means to be poor in spirit.
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“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said:
‘Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.'”
Matthew 5:1-12 (NIV)