The Marks of the Poor in Spirit

What are the marks of the poor in spirit?  Jeremiah Burroughes answered that question by delineating the qualities he saw in Scripture that are characteristic of those who are poor in spirit: 1. They are not puffed up with pride at the sight of their spiritual virtues.  They acknowledge that anything good in them is due to God’s grace working in them.  2. The poor in spirit are not envious when others receive more honor than they do.  3. They are thankful for every good thing they receive, no matter how small, considering it more than they deserve.  4. Knowing how needy they are, the poor in spirit seek God every day in prayer. 5. They are willing for God to choose their condition.  Their comforts, abilities, and everything else can be safely left wholly with Him.  As a result, they are not anxious or fearful.  6. The poor in spirit do not consider the wealthy and powerful as the most blessed people, but those who are the most godly.  7. They are willing to wait for the fulfillment of God’s promises.  They are patient.  8. They have a great reverence for God and the authority of His word.  This is a fine portrait of those who will know an abundance of God’s blessings!  And is so different from what the world admires!