Contagious Characteristics: BeatitudesSample

Hunger and thirst are two things that every human experiences daily. According to research, they are two of the three basic needs of every human, while the third is shelter. Scientifically, the human body cannot survive more than seven days without either. As you can see, food and water are both highly necessary for the human body. They're essential to living, not only physically but also spiritually.

To hunger and thirst for righteousness does not necessarily mean to desire the THINGS of God. Instead, it focuses more on wanting the PERSON of God. In other words, it is to seek God's face more than His hand. It is about desiring a real connection with God, not just asking for things. It's like seeking God's friendship more than wanting what He can give us. In a world full of distractions, choosing to be friends with God means saying no to things that don't make Him happy, like spreading rumors, being disobedient to our parents, or even spending more time on social media and other distractions than with God.

In the Bible, Jesus says He is the living water (John 4:10,13-14) and the bread of life (John 6:35).

Imagine a hot summer day. What's the one thing you'd love the most in that moment? A refreshing, ice-cold drink, right? Jesus says He's like that refreshing water. So, when life gets tough or you're feeling overwhelmed, Jesus is our ultimate source of refreshment. Not just to make you feel better for a moment but to give a deep, lasting sense of peace and joy, no matter what you're going through.

Now, think about those times when you're starving. One bite of something delicious satisfies your growling stomach. Jesus wants to be that satisfaction for us as the bread of life. Unlike earthly food and water that leave us wanting more, Jesus promises lasting satisfaction if we hunger and thirst for Him. Exciting, isn't it?

As you go on this journey, remember it's not about being perfect but getting better. Let God fill your hunger with His goodness and quench your thirst with meaning and purpose. When you hunger and thirst for God, you'll be satisfied forever.

Reflection Questions:

1. What distracts you from focusing on God?

2. How can you make time for God, like you do for friends or hobbies?

3. How can you nourish your soul with God's Word and living water this week?