Correct Answer?
There is not a lot said about the journey towards an answer, just whether you got it correct or not.
Matthew 5.1-16
Reference: v.3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (NIV Bible)
Explore: There is a lot of pressure to know the right answer. In school there was always a right and wrong answer. The children who got to the right answers quicker were perceived to be smarter. There is not a lot said about the journey to the answer, just whether you got it correct or not.
In this passage of the Beatitudes we hear that those treasured by God are often the opposite to those treasured by the world. Even the poor in spirit receive the kingdom of heaven. Not those that got 10/10 on their theology exam; not those that can explain every Biblical passage; not those that are superior in the church. Those that receive the kingdom of heaven are those that struggle and question and continually grapple with their spiritual understandings.
Application: If we can grasp a slight understanding of God we soon realise that we are nothing in the sight of Him – and if that doesn’t make us poor in spirit then I’m not sure what does! But that is the wonder of God. Even when we are nothing compared to Him, He still offers us the kingdom of heaven. May we understand our insignificance enough to appreciate the glorious grace of our mighty God.
Prayer: Lord, it is hard to understand how great you truly are. May we sense your spirit close to us as we continue to grapple with Your immensity. Amen.
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.