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

Each blessing in this chapter relates to the character of a Christian. This first blessing points to the absolute need a disciple has in Christ. When he realises his own spiritual poverty, and his actual spiritual state, only then he is made willing to be filled with the Spirit and to be made ready for the kingdom of Heaven. This is the exact opposite of the world’s standard.

As we worship together this morning, may we all acknowledge our total need in Jesus, and draw closer to Him. It is only by God’s grace that we have been saved and not by any works that we have done. By faith, then, let us sit at Jesus feet, and learn of Him. Augustus Toplady put it this way in his hymn, “Rock of Ages”:

Nothing in my hand I bring,

simply to Thy cross I cling;

Naked come to Thee for dress,

helpless, look to Thee for grace.

Foul, I to the fountain fly, wash me,

Saviour, or I die.

RON CAIRS

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