God Quenches Our Thirsty Souls

"The key to Christian living is a thirst and hunger for God. And one of the main reasons people do not understand or experience the sovereignty of grace, and the way it works through the awakening of sovereign joy, is that their hunger and thirst for God is so small."  - John Piper, American theologian and pastor

We all have a naturally occurring requirement for water. A refreshing drink of water will usually quench our thirst. Most importantly, water is necessary for our "physical" survival. Without it, we would soon cease to exist.

Whether we realize it or not, each one of us carries a thirst of another kind within our hearts. It is a divinely-caused "spiritual" thirst, of which God is the ultimate source of fulfillment (Ecclesiastes 3:11; Psalm 42:2; 63:1).

So, what is a "thirst" for God? Think of it as a deep yearning for a strong, personal connection with God. This is frequently described as a desire for his presence, instruction, and uprightness. 

"Thirst," as used in Scripture, figuratively describes the soul's inherent necessity for intimacy with Him. The very word itself activates a familiarity of something common to all; helping us visualize the soul's need for God. 

Psalm 42:1-2 beautifully illustrates both the passion and vital importance of seeking God. In Psalm 63:1 the "physical" thirst, that was endured in the desert, is compared to the "spiritual" thirst for God's presence and spiritual strength.

Jesus discusses the spiritual thirst of humanity in a practical manner in John 4:13-14. Here he presents Himself as the wellspring of living water, gratifying our profound spiritual requirements.

What's more, Jesus, in his invitation spoken to the crowd during the Feast of Tabernacles, emphasizes the satisfaction found in Christ, who satiates "spiritual" thirst and offers the Holy Spirit to believers (John 7:37-39).

All believers are urged to develop their "thirst" for God through spiritual practices such as prayer, studying God's word, and taking part in public worship. These applications help coordinate the heart with His will and enhance the experience of His presence.

The "thirst" for God is a core concept in the Christian life. During periods of spirit desolation, the thirst for God can remind us of our complete dependence on Him. It induces a return to the origin of living water, where true gratification and peace are found.

Scripture: Exodus 17:6; Isaiah 44:3; Matthew 5:6; John 6:35; Revelation 7:16-17 

Prayer: Dear Lord, may your love, like water, pour over my thirsty spirit, cleansing, refreshing, and renewing me. Amen.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve