Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied (Matthew 5:6).
Being poor in spirit is to recognize our desperate need for God and humble ourselves before him. We mourn over our sin and find comfort in his forgiveness. We submit our strength and all we are to God’s authority. Then we begin to empty ourselves of our pride and self-righteousness and yearn for something real.
Hunger and thirst are our most basic appetites. I don’t always eat right. But when I have adequate healthy protein instead of sugar and carbs, I’m full. The desire for more isn’t there. When we pursue righteousness in the same way our bodies need food and drink to survive, we will find it and be filled. One commentary uses the word “saturated” to describe this satisfaction. If we aren’t hungering and thirsting for his righteousness, we’re likely filling up on poor substitutes and have lost our appetite for God and his Word. Nothing else satisfies.
- What substitutes are we allowing to fill us up?
- What are we willing to give up to allow more of Jesus in our lives?
