April 19

Spiritual Hunger

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. — Matt 5:6 BSB

It may seem strange at first to have a beatitude for dissatisfaction. We know that peace is promised to Christians, and peace is a state of calm and satisfied restfulness. But the words “hunger and thirst” seem to suggest experiences that don’t fit with rest and peace. Yet, when we think more deeply, we realize that spiritual hunger is an essential part of true Christian life. Hunger is a sign of health. In physical life, the loss of appetite is often a sign of illness. In the same way, a healthy mind is one that is eager to learn. When someone becomes satisfied with their progress, they stop growing. This is also true in spiritual life. If we become satisfied with our faith, love, obedience, communion with God, or commitment to Christ, we stop growing.

Just as invalids may die surrounded by plenty because they lack an appetite, there are many professing Christians starving their souls even in the midst of abundant spiritual provision because they lack spiritual hunger. We should earnestly pray for a longing and desire for more of God. This hunger is the heart of true prayer—it’s the empty hand reaching out to receive richer gifts from heaven. It’s the cry of the heart that God always hears and answers with more life and blessing. It’s like an angel ascending the ladder of faith and returning with blessings from God. Spiritual hunger is the key that unlocks new treasures of divine goodness. It’s the very life of God in the soul, striving to grow and reach the fullness of Christ. Such hunger never goes unmet.