Those of you who have small children or grandchildren know those words all too well. They can be annoying sometimes because it seems all we are doing is finding another snack or making another meal. But those words come naturally to a growing child.
We just had the littles here and it seemed they were always hungry!
They ate good breakfast, lunch and dinner but in less than an hour it seemed they were hungry again. They didn’t want sugary snacks. No, they asked for cheese, crackers, oranges, yogurt (I didn’t have any) and other good foods. These are growing children and they need nutrients to make their bodies strong.
I kind of felt like a mother bird bringing in nourishment to the nest only to immediately fly away and find more. That’s the picture that comes to mind when I read this verse from the book of Matthew.
“Those who are hungry and thirsty to be right with God are happy, because they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6 NLV
Being hungry for God! What do those words mean to you? These words are part of the “Sermon on the Mount”. It was one of Jesus’ major teachings – the Beatitudes, the Lord’s Prayer, the Light of the World -are all teachings from that day.
We sit down several times a day to feed our physical bodies but how often do we feed our spirits? It’s vitally important that we have a hunger for God’s word.
Look what Proverbs says:
“Hear, my son, and receive my sayings, and the years of your life will be many. 11 I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you on the right paths. 12 When you walk, your steps will not be stopped. If you run, you will not trip. 13 Take hold of teaching. Do not let go. Watch over her, for she is your life.” Proverbs 4:10-13 NLV
When we devour God’s word He promises to guard our step. Wisdom from His word gives us direction and we find our life, real life, in the pages of His word.
Studying God’s word is like being invited to a banquet. The Word of God is the life source for those of us who follow Christ.
“The Lord says, “If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe.
15 When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you. 16 You will live a long life and see my saving power.” Psalm 91:14-16 CEV
To truly know who God is, we have to spend time listening to Him and He speaks to us through His word. His word is filled with the promises of all the good things He desires for us to have.
He’s a loving Father and has so many good things prepared for us. He’s just waiting for us come and say, “I’m hungry”. When we do, we have His promise that we will be filled!