Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven
Pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18). The rich young man we see in Matt 19 was proud of his spiritual life. He thought his deeds were sufficient to enter the kingdom of Heaven. But it is by His grace we are saved and not our works, rather we are created in Jesus Christ to do good works which God prepared in advance for us (Eph 2:8-10).
Jesus Himself said among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist. But John also knew whatever great works He did among the people was because of God and he confessed openly, let Him increase and we become less (John 3:30). To lead a Spirit-led Christian life it is very important to realize we are nothing without God and to give God the glory at all times.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled
Righteousness is being right according to God’s Word (The Bible) and not our own rules.
The Pharisees had their own traditions they followed religiously but in addition to that, they kept all the commandments God gave Moses. Jesus says unless our righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and Teachers of Law we will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matt 5:20).
Even before we tell God our daily needs, He knows them (Matt 6:8). What God wants us to ask and seek is His kingdom and righteousness and everything else(our needs) will be given as well (Matt 6:33).
