Although Jesus was well-off, He gave up His riches and embraced poverty. Clearly Paul is not describing Jesus as financially rich, though, as true God, He does own the cattle of a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10). Nor is Paul intimating that through this generous act of Jesus becoming “poor,” His disciples will somehow become financially rich. His point is that we are rich in Christ, regardless of the state of our finances. This is just one more way to view God’s saving work through Jesus Christ on our behalf.

“Poor” often means going without. In this case, Jesus chose to forgo His heavenly benefits – to go without – in order to help us. Why…? It is so that we who have been separated from God by sinfulness can be restored to a wonderful, rich relationship with God. It is to help us experience life as God intends – knowing Him, with Him (see John 17:3). We are all poorer when lacking a relationship to God. To fall back on Jesus’ initial words from the Sermon on the Mount: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3).

Prayer

Father God, You have enriched my life through undeserved blessings – none greater than knowing You. There is forgiveness, yes, but also the kindness to bear Your name and enjoy special favor as Your child. You lavish Your love on me and on all who come in the name of Jesus Christ. Thank You for blessing me richly in His name. Amen.

Micro-Meditation Scripture

Psalm 139:19-24

19. If only you, God, would slay the wicked!
    Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!
20. They speak of you with evil intent;
    your adversaries misuse your name.
21. Do I not hate those who hate you, LORD, and
    abhor those who are in rebellion against you?
22. I have nothing but hatred for them;
    I count them my enemies.
23. Search me, God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24. See if there is any offensive way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting.
    

Micro-Meditation
Teaching or Command of God

Psalm 7:9

Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure — You,
the righteous God who probes minds and hearts. 

2 Peter 2:9

The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment.

Micro-Meditation Pondering Point

Many deceitful schemes have been run under the umbrella of God’s name, but God knows who are His and who are merely using His name for personal gain. "O Father, our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name... Amen".

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