Spiritual Bankruptcy

Reflection 66 from Matters of the Heart, a series of Orthodox reflections on faith and life.

Verse: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” – (Matthew 5:3)

See Also:

Psalm 33 (34):6-7

Our great Teacher’s famous Sermon on the Mount begins with the promise of the Kingdom to those who are poor in spirit. The placement of this beatitude as chief amongst the virtues is no coincidence, for it is through pride that humanity fell into sin, and it is through humility that we are to be restored to our former glory.

Poverty of spirit is spiritual bankruptcy! It is the condition of the heart in which one acknowledges that all goodness stems from God, recognising one’s own worthlessness apart from God. Such conviction of the soul is fundamental to all manner of spiritual advancement. It enables us to become beggarly, dedicating every passing moment to knocking on God’s doors and beseeching Him for His life giving and soul nourishing riches. Blessed are those who seek the life of interior lowliness, stripping themselves of their self-pride and worldly desires in order to place complete and utter trust in the Lord.

Prayer

Help me Lord to recognize my own poverty and helplessness in order that I may put all my trust in You and seek Your eternal riches.

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