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NASB | Matthew 5:3 ¶ "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 5:3 ¶ "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]. [Luke 6:20-23] |
Bible Question: What does spiritually prosperous mean in Matthew 5:3, Amplified version? |
Bible Answer: I believe the qualifying remarks in the Amplied Bible may help answer this very good question. It goes on to say about spiritually prosperous, "that is, with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions". So, this type of prosperity is internal (not outward) and it can bring great joy and satisfaction knowing that we are living a life that is pleasing to God. It has nothing to do with our exterior condition (i.e. materially rich -or poor) or the manner in which the god of this world rates success. It is your personal and spiritual relationship with God and is kept on track when adhering to what's said in the very next chapter of Matthew. Mt 6:33 "But seek for (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom, and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right], and then all these things taken together (mentioned in vss. 25-31) will be given you besides." No wonder earlier in Matthew 6, Jesus said to "Pray therefore like this: Our Father Who is in heaven, hallowed (kept holy) be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Yes, God's kingdom is tied to His will - which we pray be done "on earth" as it is in heaven. Being spiritually prosperous - life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation - brings contentment (happiness) now and in the future! |