A DEEPER HUNGER

A DEEPER HUNGER

Contributed by Melanie Schurr

Have you ever had a hunger for a certain food? You know, on those days you just have to have a sweet, such as a donut or chocolate sundae.

What about the times you crave a salty or crunchy food item, such as potato chips or peanuts?

The same thing is true with our physical bodies. Sometimes, our body just seems to crave to be held, scratched or loved.

These are all very normal physical needs, but did you know that because God created us as spiritual beings with a deeper purpose, we have very real spiritual cravings as well?

That's right. The sad part is that lots of people feel these spiritual hunger pangs and aren't sure what to do about it. They try to load the spiritual calling with fillers that offer temporary good feelings, but the reality is, they only offer "empty calories," and their flavor leaves a bitter aftertaste.

How many people do you know that try to fill this void with sex, drugs, alcohol, and keeping their life so full of activity they don't have time to think about meaty spiritual substance? Are these people happy as they outwardly appear, or when they are alone and in the privacy of their own home, are their hearts inwardly filled with despair?

There IS a food that is sweet to the taste, and truly fulfilling and satisfying, and this substance is the bread of life that only God can offer through His living word.

What is His living word?

It is the truth that lives within Him, and anyone who believes in Him, and is reflected in how we live our daily life. Will the actions we carry out in our life reflect godliness, or will our day to day actions and thoughts be tainted with sin?

Just as you listen to your body when it has an itch, and you offer it a nice scratch, won't you listen to your hungry spirit as it calls out for God?

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!

Independence Day celebrates the birthday of the United States of America. Founded July 4th 1776, with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, America is celebrating it's 228th birthday this year (2004)

PRAYER

Father God, you deemed it right to send forth your Son to be the redemption of your beloved people. Let us pray that we will honestly and sincerely renew our commitment and hope in your great redemptive love in Christ Jesus, your Son, our Lord and Savior, Amen.