While it is true that the Holy Spirit can do wonderful things to and for us, we have to be aware of the part we play in the relationship. Being poor in spirit is the process whereby we give God permission to do various things in our lives. Everything God does in and through us is done with our permission.

We have to LET the Holy Spirit do His work. We had to ACCEPT God’s provisions of salvation. And, we have to YIELD to God’s provisions of sanctification. Even though the Holy Spirit is now in direct contact with our spirit, our life is still built on a cooperative and permission based relationship.

Notice how Romans 8:13 says it? … if by the Spirit YOU put to death the misdeeds of the body.... We can see this all throughout Jesus’ disciple training system.

John 6:66-69 (NIV) From this time many of His disciples turned back and no longer followed Him. “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that You are the Holy One of God.”

In this Scripture, we can see that Jesus is keeping their will involved. He isn’t going to start, continue, or finish anything in their lives or ministries without their permission and cooperation.