SPIRITUALITY AND FAITH
HUNGRY FOR MORE OF GOD
Article by Pastor Philip Nissley,
New Hope Assembly of God, Taylor, MI
and convictions) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!" In other words, Heaven’s blessing and victory over the world is released on those who hunger and thirst for God and the next world! This causes us to stand up, speak up and live out our faith! GETTING READY FOR JESUS results in a lifestyle that distinguishes us as true Heaven-Ready Christians.
B. Righteousness starts in the heart and changes a person from the inside out.
Jesus said, "For I tell you, unless your righteousness SURPASSES that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:20). The Pharisees controlled a religious system built around rituals, regulations and religious works to be seen by men. It’s like wearing cheap perfume you splash on the outside to cover up the smell, but it can't cover up the dirt odor underneath. Here Jesus spoke of hunger for righteousness that changes our priorities/character from inside out.
There is no substitute for genuine HUNGER for God, Healing by the cross of Christ, and Power of the Holy Spirit!! Religious methods can’t replace miracles! Human Programs can’t replace Hunger and Power. Structure can’t replace Spirit and Seeking after God. “Hunger for God” is our only hope at drawing men to salvation, healing, deliverance and building true godly character! In Matt. 5:6 Jesus call us to examine our appetite, saying “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, because they will be filled". Jesus knew hunger determines spiritual health! Let us first see:
I. HUNGER GIVES THE POSSIBILITY OF BEING RIGHTEOUS AND FILLED FOR GOD!
A. Righteousness is a lifestyle that distinguishes us as true Christians and helps overcome the world as we “feed” on God! Jesus said in Matt. 5:10, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness (Godly life