What It Really Means To Be Poor In Spirit.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3 (NKJV)

The scripture above is often cited to argue that Christians should avoid wealth to inherit the kingdom of heaven. However, being poor in spirit does not equate to lacking financial resources.

Being poor in spirit signifies an attitude of the heart that acknowledges one’s need for God. It involves living with a posture of dependence on Him—saying, “I need God for my next breath, my daily bread, my salvation, and that God is my everything.”

Many today are self-sufficient, self-satisfied, and self-fulfilled. Due to the deception of riches, they believe they don’t need God. Some think that intelligence alone is enough to solve all problems. But life extends beyond human comprehension—life is spiritual.

While hard work can bring some material success, true abundance originates from God. An abundant life brought by the Lord Jesus encompasses spirit, soul, and body. The forgiveness of sin and freedom from eternal condemnation are only possible through the blood of Jesus.

What can calm emotional turmoil? Only God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, can guard your heart and mind.

Divine health is a gift from Jesus, who bore our sicknesses and carried our sorrows.

Wealth and social status do not guarantee peace or health—many live condemned, restless, and unwell despite material riches. Having money means little if one is spiritually condemned, lacks peace, or is constantly ill.

That’s why Jesus says you are blessed if you hunger for God and recognize your wretchedness without Him. Without God, we are insignificant creatures, a speck in the dust - in fact, we are dust.

Those who are poor in spirit do not need to be begged to attend church or follow God’s ways. They do so because they understand their existence depends on Him.

They do not act as if they are doing God a favor by worshiping, giving, or serving. Every opportunity to serve is seen as a privilege. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Prayer.

Heavenly Father, grant me a humble attitude. I acknowledge I am nothing without You. You are the air I breathe and the hope I cling to. Nothing can separate me from Your love in Jesus’ name.