“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:3-4
What do you need today? Some of you may answer that you need a nap or a week-long vacation! Some might respond with a request for financial provision or job stability. Others might say that what you need most is relational restoration and healing. Our needs are as different and diverse as the number of people on the planet (approx. 7,920,505,358 people on the planet today). But no matter what our physical, relational, or emotional needs today, we all have a deep spiritual need. And no matter where you come from or what other needs you have, we all share a deep need for a Savior.
I wonder how much time you spend thinking about your physical, emotional, and social needs? Most of us tend to focus on these needs far more than our spiritual needs because we can’t do anything on our own to address our spiritual needs like we can our physical, social, and emotional needs. We might be able to make strides toward having our needs met in these other areas, but we are powerless to provide the spiritual healing that we require. We are powerless yet blessed.
In Matthew 5, Jesus tells His disciples that those who realize the depth of their sinfulness and grieve over the choices they have made (are poor in spirit), will actually inherit the kingdom of heaven. And those who mourn over their sinful state and repent from their sin to turn toward God (those who mourn), will find comfort.
Do you want to be blessed? Do you want to be comforted by your Father? It won’t be found in pursuing your desires or physical needs. Become more solemn about the depth of your spiritual need and you will be blessed.