What does real happiness look like in God’s kingdom? Jesus tells us it begins with an appetite—a deep hunger and thirst for righteousness. In the Beatitudes, the Lord isn’t offering tips for self-improvement; He’s revealing the heart of kingdom living. When Christ reigns, both in His future kingdom and in our hearts today, those who long to be right with God—and to live right before God—discover a joy the world can’t give and a satisfaction the world can’t take away.
This message explores why spiritual hunger matters and what it seeks. Hunger is evidence of life (the Spirit awakens desire for God) and evidence of health (vibrant believers crave His Word, His ways, and His presence). Jesus directs that appetite toward righteousness—first imputed at salvation (we are declared righteous by faith in Christ), then imparted in sanctification (the Spirit forms Christ’s likeness in us). Instead of chasing what the nations seek, we obey Jesus’ call: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness”—trusting the Father to provide.
And here is the promise: “they shall be filled.” God Himself satisfies the soul that longs for Him. Holiness becomes happiness. As we behold the Lord and walk with Him, He changes us “from glory to glory,” shapes our desires, and fills our lives with steady peace and durable joy—whether on the mountain or in the valley.
Key Takeaways:
- True blessing flows from desire for God, not from external success.
- Righteousness is both our position in Christ and our pursuit with Christ.
- God satisfies every soul that seeks Him; nothing else truly will.
Response:
Are you spiritually hungry? Come to Christ. Ask Him to deepen your appetite for His Word, His will, and His ways—and experience the fullness He delights to give.