Matthew 5 begins what we know to be the sermon on the mount. The very first verse in this is “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:3 NIV).
So, what does Poor in Spirit mean? How can one be poor spiritually?
The word “poor” in the Greek language is “pto-khos,” which means to be lacking, needy, and reduced to being a persistent beggar.
This verse is saying those people who are consistently begging for God’s spirit will have the kingdom of Heaven because of their eager yearning for God’s Spirit. We, as Christians, have been gifted the Holy Spirit as a comforter and essentially a guidance counselor. We should always yearn for the Spirit to guide us and lead us to do God’s will, and as Christ said, the Kingdom of Heaven will be theirs.
Dear Father, you have gifted us your Holy Spirit to act as your representatives among the earth to proclaim your good news. Allow your Spirit to teach us, guide us, and mold us to being the best disciples we can be. Amen.
Many Nations 