Wanting What Is Right
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Matthew 5:6 KJV
You know what it feels like to want something strongly. A game, a place on a team, or a friend's approval can occupy your thoughts for days. Jesus speaks about a different hunger: a desire for righteousness.
This is more than wanting to look good while someone is watching. It includes caring about truth in private, justice when another person is overlooked, and obedience when a wrong choice would be convenient. The Lord knows whether we are seeking what is right or only the reputation that comes with it.
We cannot make ourselves right with God by collecting enough good behavior. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again. Those who belong to Him should then desire to live in ways that please Him.
Bring your choices under Scripture's light. Welcome correction, turn from known sin, and ask for wise help when needed. A growing appetite for what honors the Lord is worth cultivating. It will direct your life more soundly than the endless desire to be admired by the people around you.
Keep the passage in context
Jesus blesses those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. His words describe a deep desire for what is right before God rather than satisfaction with a religious appearance.
Read further: Matthew 5 in the King James Bible.