To be “poor in spirit” is a concept far removed from what we modernly understand as being “poor-spirited.” It involves a profound humility: emptying oneself of the desire to exert personal selfish will and, equally crucial, shedding all preconceived notions in a devoted quest for God. It means a willingness to overhaul current thought patterns, biases, and lifestyles if they hinder the journey to finding God.
In the earthly kingdom, those who acquire the most power, control, status, and assets thrive. This world’s kingdom is based on advancing our personal agenda, meaning more power, influence, money, and honor for ourselves, even if it means trampling those in our way. In contrast, in the Kingdom of Heaven, these things are only secondary.
Our “great possessions” are not necessarily material wealth — as most are not exceedingly rich — but rather our deep-seated preconceptions, overconfidence in personal judgment, longing for the wrong things, spiritual arrogance stemming from titles we have achieved, emotional ties to institutions, reluctance to change established life habits, fear of public disapproval, or attachment to worldly recognition and status. These “possessions” bind us to a life of suffering, distanced from God.
“Poor in spirit” contrasts with those who “have it all” and, therefore, often proud. A poignant example of failing to embrace this spirit is the tale of the Rich Young Man (Mark 10:17-24). The tragedy of the Rich Young Man isn’t his wealth, as money itself is morally neutral. His tragedy lies in his heart being trapped by the love of money, which Paul deemed rooted in evil. Wealth wouldn’t have barred him from the Kingdom of Heaven had his heart not been tethered. His trust in his riches prevented him from entering the Kingdom of Heaven right there in front of him.
This dilemma also confronted the ecclesiastics of Jerusalem when faced with Yeshua’s message. They were not poor in spirit but laden with “possessions” of Rabbinical knowledge, societal honors, and religious authority. Embracing Yeshua’s spiritual teachings would have meant relinquishing these.
The “poor in spirit,” unencumbered by most of life’s hindrances, either never possessed them and have nothing to lose or have transcended them through spiritual insight. Free from the love of wealth, fear of public opinion, and the influence of authority, they are open to reevaluating their beliefs, recognizing the fallibility of their cherished convictions, and prepared to rebuild their understanding of life from the ground up.
Here, Yeshua asks us to consider: What are we after in life? Spiritual prosperity or worldly power and wealth? Is there anything hindering us from stepping into God’s spiritual Kingdom with both our legs?
This article is part of the book, “The Kingdom of Yeshua: Christ’s Timeless Wisdom to Revive Your Spiritual Life.”
