“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
- Matthew 5:6
Jesus said those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. There is no uncertainty in his comment. It will happen.
I lament the moments in life when I do not thirst for Jesus. Furthermore, I have friends and loved ones whom I wish hungered and thirsted for righteousness. It saddens me that I can’t give them this thirst. It breaks my heart that they spend themselves year after year pursuing things that, in the end, will let them down.
In the teachings of Jesus, righteousness means being in right relationship with God. Additionally, the word “blessed,” as seen above, can be translated “happy.” Therefore, those who who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be happy. Why? Because they will be filled, or better yet, satisfied.
Our world seeks many things in hopes of finding happiness or satisfaction in life. Oftentimes, people pursue money because they believe financial security can solve discontentment and a multitude of woes. In other cases, and perhaps more prevalent in the upcoming generation, fame is considered the solution to a meaningful and satisfying life. It’s all an illusion. It’s a lie.
One of my favorite quotes is from Jim Carrey, the wildly successful comedian and actor. He said, “I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that it’s not the answer.” I don’t know if Jim Carrey follows Jesus, I pray he does; nonetheless, his quote is powerful, especially considering the amount of fame he has experienced throughout his career. He’s done enough to know what he’s talking about.
Many times, we place significant hope in things that, in reality, are not very significant. Sure, on the surface and in the moment they seem like enormous things, but in hindsight, they are usually pretty silly.
Timothy Keller wrote an excellent book about idolatry called Counterfeit Gods. He defines a counterfeit god as “anything so central and essential to your life that, should you lose it, your life would feel hardly worth living.” What is that for you? What thing is so critical to your sense of worth that life would feel worthless if you lost it?
Jesus offers us life. He said he came so we would have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10). I don’t know where you are in your pursuit of happiness, but if you’re serious about finding it, look no further than Jesus. He is the hope you are longing for. He is the answer. He is the satisfaction your heart desires. Only he can give life today and for all eternity (John 3:16).
Turn to Jesus today, my friend. Dabbling with counterfeit gods has yet to satisfy you. A new life can start today — this very moment.
Be filled.
Be satisfied.
Daniel Seabaugh 