I’m preparing a summer worship series on the Beatitudes at Northside Church entitled “Blessed to Be a Blessing” The first Beatitude declares, “Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Several authors noted that the poor in spirit possess humility. The humble person depends entirely upon God, focusing on others rather than self. C. S. Lewis wrote, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”
How does one cultivate the spiritual attribute? An old joke asks, “If you’re humble, do you know it?” When people realize they’re practicing humility, the ephemeral quality sublimates into thin air.
Father Jacques Philippe, a Roman Catholic priest, authored a book on the Beatitudes entitled “The Eight Doors to the Kingdom.” He noted, “Nothing makes us grow more in humility than gratitude.”
The statement resonated with my soul. Gratitude recognizes that every good gift comes from above. We focus on God, not self. We embrace humility by seeing the gifts, recognizing the Giver, and giving thanks.
“Nothing makes us grow more in humility than gratitude.”
Treasure in Jars of Clay 
Thank you for this thoughtful piece of writing. There is much to consider here.
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A few months ago, in a Bible study class, I was telling the group how blessed I felt. I have a good marriage, healthy children and grandchildren, and am financially secure. No catastrophes have befallen me. That got me to thinking about others who have not had the same life experiences as me. Friends who have had children die or lost jobs or poor health. Were God’s blessings defined by how good life has been? Were others, who did not have experiences that I have had, not blessed by God? Was God turning his back on and not blessing those people I know who had catastrophes in their lives? That just can’t be. Maybe God’s blessings are not measured in worldly enrichments. Maybe it is enough that I have Christ in my life and that is all the blessing I need, no matter what life throws at me.
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