Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
Scripture Reading — Matthew 5:1-12
Blessed are those who keep [the Lord’s] statutes and seek him with all their heart. . . .
The Bible provides clear examples for right living. Abraham—in his better moments—provides a profound example of trust (Genesis 12:1-7). Joseph provides a powerful example of faith and faithfulness in adversity (Genesis 39-47). The author of Psalm 119 provides a vivid demonstration of passion for God’s Word.
The psalmist has treasured God’s words in his heart, and he seeks the Lord with all of his heart, soul, mind, and strength to apply God’s commands to his life. He does this despite the many challenges he faces, including the fierce opposition of his enemies. But as the psalmist himself also declares, he is not perfect; he must continue to dedicate his life to seeking God in his Word and striving to live according to God’s righteousness.
Jesus—God’s Word in the flesh—uses language similar to the psalmist to commend people who want to follow’s God’s way: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” Although we don’t know who wrote Psalm 119 or how his life turned out, Jesus’ words of blessing assure us that the psalmist’s striving to please God was not in vain. As Jesus promises, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness “will be filled.”
Are we, like the psalmist, hungering and thirsting for God’s righteousness? If we are, God will satisfy us.
You bless us, Lord, when we seek your righteousness; help us to seek you with all of our hearts. Amen.
About the author — Kurt Selles
Kurt Selles is the director of ReFrame Ministries and serves as the Executive Editor of Today. He is a graduate of Calvin College and Seminary, and received his PhD from Vanderbilt University. Before coming to ReFrame, he served 19 years in Taiwan and China with CRC World Missions. Kurt later taught missions at Beeson Divinity School, where he also acted as the director of the school’s Global Center. Kurt and his wife, Vicki, reside in Grand Rapids and have three adult children.
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