Being poor in spirit is a reference to humility

[Tang Wei Ping]

Proverbs 18:23:
The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

Commentary on this verse:
Those perceived as "poor" often feel they must ask—or literally "beg"—when speaking with others, while those who are rich might be tempted towards arrogance and derision. From a spiritual perspective, this verse can also be interpreted as a contrast between those who are "poor in spirit" versus those who are arrogant (Matthew 5:3; Proverbs 16:19). Being poor in spirit is a reference to humility: someone who depends on the Lord to meet their needs. Such a person will naturally gravitate towards a gentler, calmer, and less entitled attitude.

Our prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please help us to have hearts of compassion and mercy towards those who are less fortunate than us. May we never turn a deaf ear to the cries of the poor, but instead, may we be quick to offer help and support. Please forgive us for any times when we have answered harshly or turned a blind eye to those in need. Help us to be more like You, who always shows mercy and kindness to all. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

 

[Articles]

Tang ### ###, thank you for bringing this verse to our attention. Let's explore Proverbs 18:23 together: "The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly."

This proverb highlights the contrast between the humble and the proud. Those who are poor, both materially and spiritually, often feel the need to beg or plead, showing a humble attitude and recognition of their need for help. Meanwhile, those who are rich may be tempted to respond harshly or dismissively, exhibiting arrogance and pride. This dynamic is not only about material wealth but also about spiritual posture.

Being "poor in spirit," as Jesus mentioned in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3), refers to humility—recognizing our spiritual poverty and our complete dependence on God. This attitude leads to a gentler, calmer, and less entitled demeanor. Conversely, the rich in spirit, or the proud, may rely on their own strengths and mock or dismiss others. Proverbs 16:19 reminds that it is better "to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud."

We pray on the subject of this verse:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You, acknowledging our spiritual poverty and our absolute need for Your grace and mercy. Help us to embody the humility that comes from being poor in spirit, recognizing that every good thing comes from You.

Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have responded harshly or turned a blind eye to those in need. Soften our hearts and open our ears to the cries of the poor and the marginalized. Make us instruments of Your peace and compassion, always ready to offer help and support to those who need it.

Help us also to examine our hearts and root out any pride or arrogance that may be lurking there. May we never rely on our own strengths or accomplishments, but always depend on You, the source of all true wealth and wisdom. Turn our hearts towards You, the one in whom eternal value is placed.

Guide us, Father, to live to Your glory. May we live in such a manner that demonstrates the love and humility of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May His name be lifted up in all that we say and do, and may the world see Your light shining through us. Jesus alone we receive our salvation and forgiveness of sin. It is only by Him we have access to You, God in heaven. No other way is there by which we are saved by a savior but by trusting in Jesus Christ.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Together, let us strive to cultivate humility and dependence on God, remembering that true wealth is found in Him alone.

 

[abundantlyblessed]

Praying in Jesus Name.

 

[hostadmin]

We've been reflecting on Proverbs 18:23, "The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly." It's a stark reminder of the contrast between humility and pride, isn't it? Those who are spiritually poor, who acknowledge their need for God, are more likely to approach others with humility and gentleness. On the other hand, those who are spiritually rich, who rely on their own strength, may respond harshly or dismissively.

Let's pray together, shall we? Heavenly Father, we come before You, acknowledging our spiritual poverty. Help us to cultivate a humble spirit, always recognizing our need for Your grace and mercy. Forgive us for the times we've been rough or dismissive, and help us to be quick to offer help and support to those in need. Guide our hearts, Father, to be more like Jesus, who always showed mercy and kindness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

[Anren]

I prayed for this request in Jesus Name.

 

[usha rani]

Praying for this request in Jesus Name.

 

[Skewrick]

Praying for this request in Jesus Name. Amen.

 

[Cinu]

Lord, we pray for this prayer and family for blessings healing and salvation. Heal and bless. May their lives be a praise and glory unto thee.
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.

Some resources that might help.

Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)

Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)

Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)

Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)

Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)

Help in Prayer

Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)

Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)

sermons

 

[The Encourager]

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May God in Jesus' name answer your prayer request according to God's perfect love, wisdom, will, timing, grace, and mercy. Thank You Jesus!!!

Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. Thank You for loving me, Jesus. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. Bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, and Your righteousness. Help and strengthen me God to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.

God heal me. Deliver and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ Jesus. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so. Prayer written by Encourager ###, M.A., Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach.
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[hostadmin]

We continue to feel honored that you shared your reflection on Proverbs 18:23 and allowed us to pray alongside you. It is our privilege to stand in agreement with you, seeking God's guidance as we meditate on His Word.

If you have felt a renewed sense of humility and compassion, we would love for you to share your praise report with us. Your testimony can inspire others and remind us all of God's work in our lives. If you find yourself still struggling with arrogance or indifference, please don't hesitate to post your prayer request again. We are committed to continuing in prayer with you.

Let us keep seeking God's heart as we interact with those around us, remembering that He calls us to be poor in spirit, rich in mercy, and quick to listen. May God bless you as you continue to pursue Him through His son, Jesus Christ. We pray in Jesus' name.