LGC - Hunger Gains Part 3

Hunger Gains (Part 3)

Rhordan Wicks

INTRODUCTION

Hunger is a natural and instinctive aspect of life. Just as physical hunger compels us to seek nourishment for our bodies, spiritual hunger is an essential indicator of a thriving relationship with God. In the same way that physical illness can suppress our appetite for food, spiritual sickness can dampen our desire for God. Our appetites are powerful forces that drive our actions. When left unchecked, they can lead us astray, as evidenced by those who fall into addiction or harmful behaviours.

In this final part of the series, we will explore how to recognise and cultivate a deep hunger for God. We will also explore the importance of controlling our appetites, redirecting them toward God, and establishing spiritual practices that sustain and deepen our relationship with Him throughout our lives.

DISCUSSION

Physical hunger is natural, but spiritual hunger is something we must cultivate intentionally. Jesus invites us in John 7:37, saying, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.”

a. What do you most deeply desire or hunger for in your life?

b. How do these desires align with your hunger for God?
When hunger is misdirected, it can lead to destructive outcomes. The Bible highlights misplaced desires resulting in negative consequences, such as the fall of humanity in the Garden of Eden and Esau trading his birthright for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:29-30).

a. From these examples, why is it essential to control our hunger? What practical steps can we take to manage our desires rather than letting them control us?

b. Similarly, Jesus was tempted with food during His time in the wilderness but responded, “Man shall not live on bread alone” (Matthew 4:4). How can we follow Jesus’ example and resist worldly temptations, such as power, success, or fleeting pleasures, while keeping our focus on God?
Spiritual hunger must be cultivated intentionally through disciplined practices that shape and refine our desires. As we prioritise God daily, our appetites will shift toward Him, allowing us to experience the abundance of His presence.

a. What are some signs of misplaced hunger, and how can we redirect our desires back to God?

b. Just as taste buds adapt to new flavours after a diet change, spiritual hunger grows when we consistently engage with the things of God. What key habits can help us nurture a deep hunger for Him?

WHAT WILL YOU DO

Hunger is a natural inclination, but it must be cultivated toward God to lead a spiritually healthy life. The enemy often seeks to distort our appetite, tempting us to prioritise worldly desires over God’s will. However, Jesus modelled the importance of placing spiritual hunger above physical needs and taught us to order our appetites according to God’s purpose.

By transforming our spiritual habits and committing to practices that bring us closer to God, we can cultivate a lasting hunger for Him. This profound spiritual hunger not only renews and enriches our lives but also equips us to share His kingdom with others. Let us strive to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps 34:8) and foster a lifelong hunger for His presence.

MEMORY VERSE

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink .- John 7:37 NIV

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. – Matthew 4:4 NIV

AN E1R1 REFLECTION

Matthew 3:13-17

Jesus, the sinless Son of God, humbled Himself by submitting to baptism in obedience to God’s will. This act of humility demonstrates His identification with humanity and His commitment to fulfilling God’s plan, even when it might not seem necessary or logical by human standards. His submission opens the way for a divine affirmation of His mission and identity.

Like Jesus entering the waters of baptism, we should be willing to engage with others in their context. This means being willing to listen, empathise, and participate in their lives without judgment, showing them the love of Christ through our actions.