June 6

And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. — Phil 2:8 BSB

The first step toward righteousness in God’s kingdom is to be poor in spirit. But the next step goes even deeper: those who mourn. This is because we must become pliable, broken, and malleable, like metal in the fire, which the Master can shape. It’s not enough to simply recognize your unrighteousness—you must deeply feel it, regret it, mourn over it. Sin entering your life is no small thing. This is how God leads us to His righteousness. He often guides us through tests and trials after conversion. I don’t think it's necessary for a soul to endure deep suffering before salvation, but I believe God refines us after we know we are accepted, when we are no longer afraid of His discipline. It’s not wrathful discipline—it’s loving discipline. Oh, how God takes us down, makes us poor in spirit, and causes us to mourn until we reach the third step: meekness. This is when we are broken, yielded, submissive, willing, and humbled, crying out, "Lord, what do You want me to do?"