City Life Starter

Written by Megan Meier

The Word

“Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]. Blessed [forgiven, refreshed by God’s grace] are those who mourn [over their sins and repent], for they will be comforted [when the burden of sin is lifted].”

Matthew 5:3-4 (AMP)

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Megan’s Musings

When my teachers wanted me to retain something very important, they would emphasize it at the beginning of the lesson (“A, B, C, 1,2,3, a2 + b2 = c2 ), usually implying it would be on a test. Jesus, who was called Rabbi, started His most famous sermon with test answers. Those who know they need God will be given the kingdom of heaven, or if they see themselves as last they will be first (Matthew 19:30). Those who truly repent will be forgiven and have peace (1 John 1:9).

Repentance of sins and recognizing Jesus as Messiah are essential to being saved. And if they wholeheartedly seek God, He will be found. Without God, we have nothing, even if we are successful by the world’s standards. With God, we have everything: forgiveness, the kingdom of heaven, and access to the King Himself. 

Application

Are you poor in spirit or in mourning? It’s okay to admit that you are. Tell a mature Christian friend. Be honest with God. Take a weekend to explore your emotions. But don’t stay in mourning forever, Jesus has already done the hard (and impossible for us) work. Those who know they need the Savior and earnestly seek Him are blessed, for they will find Him.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, help me to depend on You and persevere in seeking You wholeheartedly. In Your Name I pray, amen.