Poor in Spirit = the First Step

I’m interrupting my ‘forgiveness’ theme for a quick insert of something for the three column groups who are studying the Sermon on the Mount:

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The 12 step programs we’re familiar with (like Alcoholics Anonymous) have this as their first step:

“We admitted we were powerless over alcohol - that our lives had become unmanageable.”

If we change that sentence just a bit, it gives us insight into what it means to be “Poor in Spirit.”  You can replace the word “alcohol” with the word “sin,” or make other changes … what do you think of these?  

“We admitted we were powerless over sin - that our lives had become unmanageable.”

Or:

“We admitted we were powerless over sin and self - that our lives are unmanageable.”

Or:

“We admitted we were powerless to manage our own lives.”

What kinds of re-writes may you suggest? 

Before we go on … let me show you the second of the twelve steps:

Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Doesn't that sound like it sums up our conversation?  We are powerless, but God is powerful, wise and loving. 

Now let me repeat a suggestion from our meeting: read, meditate and pray over Psalm 22 & 23.  Take your time and study it – not to pass a quiz, but to get to know God.  See if you agree that Psalm 22 basically says: “I’m powerless,” and 23 says, “I can do anything with Yahweh.”

Are you becoming poor in spirit this week?

Are you checking on your bros & sisters?