Recognizing our Spiritual Poverty

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

September 21st Sermon, Day 1

The journey toward true blessing often begins in an unexpected place: with the recognition of what we lack. In the Beatitudes, Jesus introduces a revolutionary understanding of what it means to be blessed. He begins by telling us that the poor in spirit are blessed, and then builds on this by saying that those who mourn are blessed as well.

These two beatitudes are connected. We first recognize our spiritual poverty—our complete dependence on God—and then we naturally mourn over the reality of our brokenness. This isn't about beating ourselves up or wallowing in shame. Rather, it's an honest acknowledgment before God that we've fallen short and need His grace.

When we come to this place of honest sorrow over our sin, something beautiful happens. Instead of condemnation, we find comfort. Instead of rejection, we find embrace. God doesn't turn away from our brokenness—He draws near to it. He meets us precisely at the point of our greatest need.

Today, consider where you might be trying to appear strong or put-together before God. What would it look like to honestly acknowledge your spiritual poverty and mourn over the ways you've fallen short? Remember, this vulnerability before God isn't a path to condemnation but to comfort and grace.

Bible Verse

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23

Reflection Question

In what areas of your life have you been reluctant to acknowledge your spiritual poverty and need for God's grace?

Quote "Jesus said, you're blessed. You're right in the eyes of God when you come to God recognizing your spiritual poverty. And then he continued that thought by adding, and it's right and good to mourn over how wrong we've been."

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that I often try to appear strong and self-sufficient. Help me to honestly recognize my spiritual poverty and to mourn over my sin. Thank you that you don't condemn me in my brokenness but offer me comfort and grace. Draw near to me as I draw near to you in honesty and vulnerability. Amen.