Daily Encounter: A Week-day Devotional by a staff of ACTS International.

Thursday, December 14, 2017

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven…."¹

Some years ago the Raleigh, North Carolina, News & Observer published an article entitled: “How Do You Measure Up as a Man?” The article stated that some extensive research had been conducted on the 20th century standards for measuring a man. The criteria were quite interesting to say the least. They were as follows:

1. His ability to make and conserve money;  2. The cost, style and age of his car;  3. (This is my favorite) How much hair he has;  4. His strength and size;  5. The job he holds and how successful he is at it;  6. What sports he likes;  7. How many clubs he belongs to;  8. His aggressiveness and reliability.

Jesus Christ's estimation of the measure of a man (and/or a woman) was in stark contrast. His values are as follows:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit…those who mourn…the meek…those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…the merciful…the pure in heart…the peacemakers…those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."²

Hmm…I wonder how I measure up. Sobering thought!

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to evaluate my life not on the basis of what the world or others think or say, but on what you say in your Word, the Bible. And help me to live and love accordingly. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. See Matthew 5:1-12.
2. Ibid.

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