Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
Hunger and thirst are intense desires that require an urgent response. Someone hungry needs food, and someone thirsty needs water. Nothing else can truly satisfy. In the same way, a believer should have a deep longing for God’s righteousness.
Our God is holy, and His divine standard of righteousness is way beyond our reach. We may have an impressive list of good works. Sadly, they are like filthy rags before God (Isaiah 64: 6). Our efforts to keep the law, spiritual discipline, or religious duties cannot make us right with God. What we need is the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Christ (Philippians 3:9).
A divine exchange took place on the cross, when Jesus took our sin and gave us His righteousness. Leaning on our own righteousness leads to pride, but embracing His, leads us to humility and gratitude.
Whoever hungers and thirsts for righteousness receives two promises. God will bless them. They will be in the privileged position of living under divine favour. Also, God will fill them. He will satisfy them completely and leave them without any lack. Then they can stand in full confidence, clothed in His perfect righteousness.
So, how do we develop this hunger and thirst? Seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness above everything else in every situation (Matthew 6:33). Just as a deer pants for water, we must pursue God passionately (Psalm 42:1-2). We must immerse ourselves in His Word, which instructs us in righteous living (2 Timothy 3:16). Let’s live intentionally and guide others toward God’s righteousness as well (Daniel 12:3).
Today, as we observe Global Day of Parents, let’s thank God for parents – both earthly and spiritual – who have made a righteous impact on our lives!
