Matthew 5:3-10 - “Lord, teach us how to think…” Today begins an 8-part look at the Beatitudes, with the focus being on the practical application of each verse. These build on each other, and are inseparably linked as a progression towards becoming more like Christ. " Blessed" means overflowing with joy, and being supremely well off. To be blessed requires a constant reconstruction of the heart, a demolishing of the old structure, not just a casual shift of attitude.

Day 1: Matthew 5:3 – “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.”
Quality as Jesus named it: Poor in spirit
Description: Are you broken, humbled? Do you see your sin without focusing on the other person’s sin? Do you recognize your desperate need and spiritual helplessness? Do you agree with God about your sin?
Benefit which the quality leads to: Kingdom of heaven – without recognizing your constant need of the Savior, you won’t grab the life line, and won’t live in repentance, but instead, you’ll live in pride. Being poor in spirit is a requirement for every one of God’s people.
Reinforcing Scripture: Psalm 51:17
How the sequence works: Being broken in spirit leads to a state of sorrow & mourning.