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(1)  Industry. They that want nothing think it needless to labour;

(2)  Temperance;

(3)  Frugality;

(4)  Contempt of the world.

(Sir William Davies, Ban. , D. D.)Neither indigence nor wealth in itself has the least connection with real religion.

I. Poverty of spirit consists in A DEEP CONVICTION OF GUILT and depravity, before a pure and holy Being.

(1)  By the entrance of God's Word into the mind, and the

(2)  triumph of His grace in the soul, we become "poor in spirit."

(3)  When conviction flashes in the conscience of a sinner, when he sees the

(4)  number of his sins,

(5)  strength of his corruptions, and

(6)  weakness of his resolutions, then this disposition is implanted in him. Already he hath a beginning of blessedness in his breast,

II. Poverty of spirit consists in HUMILITY through every stage of the Christian's pilgrimage.

1. It commences with a deep sense of sin, guilt, and desert of punishment.

2. It is the vital principle of the believer's spiritual constitution.

3. It grows with his grace.

4. Increases with the increase of his knowledge in God.

5. As he becomes a father in Christ, he will become a little child in his own estimation.

6. The most eminent Christian is the most humble.

7. His humility exalts him, and makes him great.

III. Poverty of spirit includes CONTENTMENT with the allotments of Providence.

1. It is opposed to the restlessness of ambition, and the haughtiness of pride.

2. It turns away from that "covetousness which is idolatry."

3. It does not eagerly and improperly desire the honours and riches of this world.

4. "Having food and raiment," it has learned to be contented therewith.Such an elevation of soul should be acquired, and such a spirit of cheerful contentment should be cultivated by all who have taken on them the Christian name.

(J. E. Good.)

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KJV: Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

WEB: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.