When I think of the poor in spirit, a lot of different thoughts come to my mind – brokenness, sadness, depression, hurt, weakness, despair, etc. I think of someone at a spiritual low-point. All of us (at one time or another) have times when we feel like we are at “rock bottom.” We feel like our prayers don’t even reach the ceiling. We can’t see past our faults and weaknesses to realize our potential. A feeling of worthlessness overcomes us. These are some of life’s terrible valleys. 
In the book of Job, we see that Job has every opportunity to be one that is poor in spirit. Throughout his story, Job is attacked over and over again by Satan. He sees his world crumble around him. He could easily just succumb to the pressure of his struggles and give up. However, he never gives into the temptation of Satan – no matter how many times those closest to him suggest that he should. He understood that he was being tested and he never lost faith in God. Because of his faith and love for the Lord, Job was rewarded and restored in the end.
The low points are the times in our lives when God is molding us – shaping us into a better vessel. God is providing opportunities for spiritual growth. These are the times when we realize that we truly need God.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 states, “He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I would rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am made strong.”
Admitting we need God for restoration, laying down spiritual pride, asking for forgiveness, and praying for direction allows God to be in control and mold us into the person that He would have us to be. We must move out of the way and let God be God. God is the Master Craftsman. Development stages are tough – the low points are brutal. It hurts, but hang in there, the broken phase is not forever and the end result is an original masterpiece from God.
Father, thank you. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for the trials that we all experience. Thank you for seeing us through those times. Thank you for the example of Job. Please heal our broken spirits – mold us into Your image. We love You and long to live with you in eternity. It’s through Christ that we pray, amen.
Casey Dacus
Graham, TX
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