Poor In Spirit

What does “poor in Spirit” look like in the life of a believer? Or what are the effects of being poor in spirit? 

According to Thomas Watson:

1.     He is weaned from himself – he understands that without Jesus he is going to hell – he loses his pre-occupation with self. Self is nothing – Jesus is everything!  Galatians 2:20 – Not I, but Christ.

2.     He is a Christ- admirer – all his thoughts lead to Christ.  Christ is not only his Savior but his source of life, wisdom, help, joy and belonging.  Everything he needs is in Christ.

3.     He does not complain about life, no matter how difficult.  He knows that what he deserves is far worse than anything he is currently experiencing and this causes a grateful heart in all things – lives with an eternal perspective – Romans 8:17,18.

4.     He is lowly of heart. He sees the strengths and virtues of others, as well as the weakness of his own sin.  He puts the needs of others before himself – Phil. 2:3.

5.     He is constantly in prayer.  A beggar constantly begs – he recognizes his complete dependency on God and God’s continuous presence in his life.  He has an ongoing conversation all day with the Lord.

6.     He will take Christ on Christ’s terms and lay aside his own.  “A castle which has long been besieged and is ready to be captured will surrender on any terms to save their lives.”  He will do anything to have Christ.

7.     He is an exalter of free grace.  He is ever in a state of thanksgiving and praise.  He was condemned and then pardoned – he greatly proclaims the goodness of his master.