"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3-4
I continue to pause my study of
Zechariah and of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah,
Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for
this book. Today, my preparation to lead Sunday school at my church, where our class is doing a study on prayer based on the book by A Praying Life, moves along. Chapter 7 makes much of poverty of spirit and how it should motivate and animate our prayer life. This diagram from chapter 6 illustrates poverty in spirit:
This message from John Piper on DesiringGod.com defines and provides greater detail on poverty of spirit, including scripture examples of those who demonstrate poverty of spirit. Our recognition and growing maturity of poverty of spirit is driven by our view of (1) God's holiness, and (2) our own sinful nature. As we grow closer to God, our view of both comes into sharper focus. In terms of prayer, anxiety, which is discussed in chapter 8 (see my brief post yesterday), should drive us into the arms of our Father and actually help our prayer life (vs serve as an excuse). Matthew 5:3-4 should always be top of mind (scripture memorization) so that we can have a constant reminder of the blessing of being poor in Spirit. One of these verses (scripture memorization) should also be top of mind (I like Psalm 46:1). Chapter 7 encourages us to lean on excerpts from text with bulleted prayers (God is our refuge) that can be repeated throughout the day - continuously.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You ARE my refuge and strength and I know You and Your love are with me always - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from such sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
