Crave

Author: Kim Proffer

Acts 2:28—You have revealed the paths of life to me; You will fill me with gladness in Your presence.

Deep sea divers talk about something called “the rapture of the deep.” It is a feeling that comes over a diver as he descends to a depth of over 100 feet. The diver can be overcome by feelings of euphoria and fearlessness. Refusing to believe he is in any danger, the person falls deeper. Feelings of calm peace lull him into a false sense of security and overconfidence. New divers may believe they can do the dive alone without the help of an expert guide. Some have even been known to feel so invincible they remove their oxygen mask while at such great depths. Craving more of the experience, they sink deeper into the abyss. Some never make it out.

These intoxicating emotions are brought on by a condition called nitrogen narcosis, caused by breathing too much nitrogen at a higher-than-normal pressure for a time longer than what is deemed safe. Diving coaches warn that when you are no longer afraid of the dangers of the deep, you are already in trouble.

Many people today swim in the peaceful waters of comfort, luxury, and security. The admiration of others gives them a false sense of self-accomplishment. Craving to experience more, they pursue the things that bring approval from the world while neglecting to deepen their relationship with God.

Prayer and fasting are a chance for us to dive to a new level with God. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” This tells us that our cravings should be for what makes us more like Christ.

We can’t accomplish righteousness on our own. Righteousness means having the right values and conduct acceptable to God. It means putting on the character of God— being more like Him. Jesus says it is for these things we should hunger and thirst.

Prayer is the daily conversation between you and God and the method by which His presence guides you through dark paths. Fasting takes you to the next level of intimacy with Him. Though you may feel an urge to indulge in what you’ve given up, allow yourself to melt deeper into Him.

Fear the comforting currents of the world that want to lull you into believing you are okay on your own. During this time of prayer and fasting, tell God your desire to go deeper with Him. Remember, when you no longer fear the dangers of drifting, you may already be in trouble. Crave more of His Presence.

Reflection

As you pray daily, what percentage of your time is spent praying for your spiritual growth? Before you pray today, list ways you desire to deepen your relationship with God.