POOR IN THE SPIRIT
(1.) This poverty in spirit is put first among the Christian graces. The
philosophers did not reckon humility among their moral virtues, but
Christ puts it first. Self-denial is the first lesson to be learned in
his school, and poverty of spirit entitled to the first beatitude. The
foundation of all other graces is laid in humility. Those who would
build high must begin low; and it is an excellent preparative for the
entrance of gospel-grace into the soul; it fits the soil to receive the
seed. Those who are weary and heavy laden, are the poor in spirit, and
they shall find rest with Christ.
(2.) They are blessed. Now they are so, in this world. God looks
graciously upon them. They are his little ones, and have their angels.
To them he gives more grace; they live the most comfortable lives, and
are easy to themselves and all about them, and nothing comes amiss to
them; while high spirits are always uneasy.
(3.) Theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom of grace is composed
of such; they only are fit to be members of Christ's church, which is
called the congregation of the poor (Ps 74:19); the kingdom of glory is
prepared for them. Those who thus humble themselves, and comply with God
when he humbles them, shall be thus exalted. The great, high spirits go
away with the glory of the kingdoms of the earth; but the humble, mild,
and yielding souls obtain the glory of the kingdom of heaven. We are
ready to think concerning those who are rich, and do good with their
riches, that, no doubt, theirs is the kingdom of heaven; for they can
thus lay up in store a good security for the time to come; but what
shall the poor do, who have not wherewithal to do good? Why, the same
happiness is promised to those who are contentedly poor, as to those who
are usefully rich. If I am not able to spend cheerfully for his sake,
if I can but want cheerfully for his sake, even that shall be
recompensed. And do not we serve a good master then?
Title : POOR IN THE SPIRIT 2
Description : POOR IN THE SPIRIT (1.) This poverty in spirit is put first among the Christian graces. The philosophers did not reckon hu...