Delighting in the Richest Fare

The United States’ Declaration of Independence states: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”[i]

As citizens of God’s kingdom, life and liberty are focal points of our faith in Christ Jesus. But for those who reside in the United States or beyond, how much does this “unalienable right” to find happiness drive the rhythm of our lives?

In the pursuit of happiness, it becomes easy to be consumed or distracted with temporal things that never truly satisfy. We work overtime to make more money. We spend endless hours on the internet and watching television. We’ll purchase certain products for a more favorable status with friends and post things on social media for personal affirmation. It becomes an ongoing cycle. 

Americans work longer hours than most workers in other developed countries. It is also well-known that Americans consume far more natural resources and live in less sustainable ways than those from other large countries. A strong work ethic and enjoying the beautiful things in life are certainly not bad in themselves. Yet being driven by them can lead to unhealthy consequences. And will they ever truly satisfy or make us happy?

God offers a greater invitation today:

“Come, all you who are thirsty, 

come to the waters; 

and you who have no money,

come, buy and eat!

Come, buy wine and milk

without money and without cost.

Why spend money on what is not bread,

and your labor on what does not satisfy?

Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,

and you will delight in the richest of fare.”

— Isaiah 55:1–2, NIV

The prophet Isaiah is declaring God’s invitation to all those who are thirsty for the things only He can provide. We’re invited to enjoy Jesus as the living water, His refreshment and nourishment. We can experience the gift of salvation, grace, joy, and peace—all for free! Jesus paid the ultimate price with His death on the cross. There’s no need to expend our labor and finances on the attractions of the world, for they will never bring true happiness and genuine fulfillment.

God calls us to listen closely to Him—to hear what He says and apply it in our lives. He invites us to eat what is truly good— whatever is true, noble, pure—that comes from His living Word. Then and only then will our souls delight in the abundance of who God is and what He provides.

How much of a priority is seeking Jesus and His kingdom? He wants to be your source of satisfaction and provision! (See Matthew 6:33.)

How much do you hunger and thirst for His righteousness? He will satisfy! (See Matthew 5:6.)

How thirsty or in need of God are you today? Do you find yourself distracted by the priorities of this world and seeking temporal happiness, or are you desperate for more of Him? 

King David’s soul cried out to God in Psalm 63:1. 

May we have this same deep hunger and longing for God. May we feast on the truth and goodness from His Word. And may we allow ourselves to delight in the fullness of who He is alone. 

Prayer Requests

· Pray that today’s people will be reignited in their passion to hunger and thirst after God and pursue Him and His ways.

· Pray that today’s youth will (re)discover who Jesus is and why the gospel matters, and influence others to know Jesus for themselves.

    

[i] “Declaration of Independence: A Transcription,” National Archives, accessed November 23, 2019, https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript, emphasis added.