I believe to be "poor in spirit" means to have an understanding of my standing before God, a sinner in constant need of His grace. This can best be seen in the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican. The Pharisee's prayer says, "God! Look at how good I am, and all that I do to show how pious I am!" And the prayer of the Publican is "God! Have mercy on me! A sinner!" Jesus said it was the Publican who was justified in the sight of God.
I believe to be "poor in spirit" means to have an understanding of my standing before God, a sinner in constant need of His grace. This can best be seen in the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican. The Pharisee's prayer says, "God! Look at how good I am, and all that I do to show how pious I am!" And the prayer of the Publican is "God! Have mercy on me! A sinner!" Jesus said it was the Publican who was justified in the sight of God.