Every human being is born with an appetite that longs to be filled. Whether it be an appetite for food, or for pleasure, or a curiosity for knowing what makes things operate the way they do, we all possess this appetite.
But where do we find satisfaction and happiness? Jesus tells us: “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6) Take note that the blessedness or happiness that Jesus is speaking about is for those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. Many people want a happy life, but they do not want to want to lead a holy life. Contrary to worldly wisdom, the person whose life is filled and blessed is the one who is hungering and thirsting after God and the things that are pleasing to Him. Many people believe that blessedness or happiness comes from having a lot of money, or drop dead gorgeous looks, or incredible athletic or musical abilities, but such is not the case, “for the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17) What Paul is telling us in here in Romans is that the kingdom of God is not something that is from this natural, physical world. Yes, one may be blessed by God to own a nice home and car, but you can be sure that no one who has been born again will find their source of peace and satisfaction in something that can be snatched away from them in a moment.
Dear reader, you may be blessed with everything to live with, but what value will that be to you when it is time to meet God (Mark 8:34-37)? There are only two kingdoms in operation on this planet – the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world. One kingdom has a “menu” that comes from above, and the other has a “menu” that comes from the earth (Galatians 5:19-23). The blessed man or woman is the person who chooses to eat and drink from the menu from above. He or she will be living a life that is filled with peace, joy and hope even in the midst of trials and tribulations (1 Peter 1:6-10). The blessed life is the result of a deliberate choice to live for the glory of God and not for selfish, sinful lusts (Romans 6:11-17; 1 Peter 4:1-3). Only those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will experience ultimate satisfaction in the presence of God forever (Psalm 17:15; 2 Peter 3:11-13).
This life of blessedness is the overflow of the gift from God that declares a person righteous by grace through faith in The Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Trust Christ today and purpose to live for Him and His glory, and you will be blessed indeed.
