Citizens of a different Kingdom: Matthew 5:1-3

Consider this, as citizens of the United States of America we have normal expectations placed on us: abide by the law, pay taxes, and eat apple pie. Knowing that each country has its own rules and expectations as citizens, how is it for us as citizens of God's Kingdom? I know that it is a tough thought to wrap your head around, but each of us who are children of God purchased by the blood of Christ share a dual citizenship. Thankfully, we live in a country that legally permits us to do so for now anyways. This message from Christ gives us the expectations of those who are citizens of God’s Kingdom.

The "poor in spirit" are those who realize that they are spiritually indebted to God. They do not just merely confess spiritual poverty but actually behave that way. With no sense of entitlement, or God owes me because I give or serve Him, or that I am so good. Ultimately, you realize you are citizens merely by the merits of Christ and not of your own.

May we realize our blessedness is given not earned.