A Lingering Thirst and an Unquenchable Longing

What happens when the flames gently flicker and fade away, giving space to a quiet, persistent longing for more?

Imagine this: you walk into a supermarket or bustling restaurant, your stomach growling loudly like a wild animal. Right from the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a delightful mix of tempting aromas that make your mouth water, each one promising a tasty treat. It’s as if your senses come alive. Every aisle calls out to you to explore vibrant, shiny fruits, crunchy snacks that beg you to try them, and beautifully presented dishes offering irresistible temptations. Time seems to fly by as you happily reach for anything that catches your eye in this exciting hunger-driven adventure, feeling like each delicious bite might disappear in an instant.

But once you’ve satisfied your craving, a peaceful calm washes over you. As you look back on all those choices, suddenly a little regret might creep in for the treats you grabbed without much thought. That moment of clarity helps you realize what you truly needed versus what was just a tempting distraction. This experience reflects our journey as Christians. When I first encountered Jesus’ message and made the life-changing decision to accept Him as my Lord and Savior, I felt an overwhelming hunger to know Him more deeply. This strong need pushed me to explore the sacred scriptures, leading to a growing collection of Bibles and devotionals. I eagerly absorbed wisdom from great faith leaders, immersing myself in the powerful teachings of ministers like Billy Graham and Dr. Charles Stanley.

I still remember the pure joy I felt as I lost myself in worship music, letting uplifting melodies and heartfelt lyrics wrap me around like a cozy blanket. My heart burned with a passion to experience Jesus’ presence in richer, more meaningful ways. But life can sometimes be overwhelming. My world was shaken during a difficult time following the heartbreaking loss of my father. During that period, the once-bright hunger I had for the Lord slowly waned—a gentle decline that I didn’t fully realize at the time, as I was unaware of how deeply I had drifted from that initial for.

Fallen into grief. Consumed by my grief, I withdrew from the world around me, and as a result, I gradually lost sight of the One who carried my burdens and suffered in my place.

Then, on what seemed to be a typical day, something powerful happened that brought back the lost flame within me. One of my coworkers was singing the poignant lyrics of “Hunger” by Nicole and David Binion. My heart and soul were pierced by the words that drifted into my head and stirred feelings I thought I had long since buried.

“Cause there is a hunger. And a thirst. I am desperate; Immerse me. I’m not waiting; Not anymore; I need You, Lord.” (Binion, 2018)   Those lyrics struck a deep chord within me, reawakening a long-forgotten desire. Embarrassment washed over me at the prospect of asking my coworker—who I had never spoken to before—about the song, so I turned to Google, eager to discover what had reignited this yearning in my heart.

Driven by this rekindled desire, I started listening to the song every day. Each time I played it, the lyrics seeped into my spirit, reigniting the hunger I once felt for Jesus. But this time, my quest was for more than simply knowledge; I longed to truly connect with Him intimately.

I poured myself into fervent prayer, heartfelt worship, and studying His Word, bravely rejoining the loving embrace of the church where I truly belonged. Surrounded by faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, their support began the healing process of my wounded heart and revealed the depths of my Heavenly Father’s love for me. As I grew to know Jesus more, my hunger and thirst found true satisfaction. Eager to share my story, I sought out my coworker, only to discover that she had fallen ill and never returned to work. A month later, we received the devastating news of her passing. At her wake, I discovered that she was a devout Christian who shone brightly amid darkness. In that moment, I understood her purpose for coming to my school, and I shared my testimony with her family.

This was just the start of my journey. In 2020, after retiring from a meaningful career in education, I felt the Lord’s gentle call to share my heartfelt story—how He transformed my life and kept every promise to satisfy my spiritual hunger and thirst.

In Matthew chapter 5, during the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” This verse beautifully emphasizes the deep longing Jesus wants us to develop—a heartfelt desire for His righteousness. Imagine living a life where your heart is always restless, guided by a sincere and passionate wish to draw closer to our Lord. This hunger and thirst are more than just passive feelings; they call us to action. Just as we wouldn’t wait idly to be fed when we’re hungry, we also need to seek out God’s presence actively. This journey involves nurturing a strong spiritual hunger, an unquenchable thirst to understand His ways, and praying genuinely for the Holy Spirit’s guidance at every step.

Dear friends, do you still feel that persistent hunger and desire to fulfill the deeper parts of your soul? I honestly do! It’s so easy to feel a sense of emptiness along life’s path, but I truly believe Jesus is the only One who can fully quench our thirst and satisfy our deepest hunger. His love and grace nourish our hearts, bringing us peace and fulfillment that the world cannot provide.

Beloved, do you genuinely desire a personal relationship with Him, or do everyday distractions pull you away from seeking His presence? Take a moment now to pause and reflect: do the fleeting pleasures of this world really fill your soul, or do you find yourself longing for more?

Today may mark the commencement of your relationship wherein you surrender to Him and present your heart to Jesus to become your Lord and favor. Do not be apprehensive. He is knocking at the door. Whoever seeks shall find Him; whoever asks shall receive; and to whoever knocks, the door will be opened. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. He will direct your path. Believe me, your hunger and thirst will be fulfilled. This is His promise.

 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I am grateful for the countless moments You have walked beside me, always reaching out even during my heartbreak when I chose to turn away. It was in my darkest hour that, though I couldn’t see You, You held me close, leaving the ninety-nine to search for the one. You, Lord, truly fulfill my deepest longings. This world offers nothing of substance; it often leaves me feeling empty and longing for more. Only You have genuinely satisfied my hunger and my deepest desires. I never want to be apart from You again. In Jesus’ name I give You the glory, amen. Reference

• Binion, D. & N. (2018). “Hunger” [Song]. Dwell: A Life Worship Experience. Integrity Music.
• Gonzalez, S. (2025). [The Lake]. [Photograph]. Personal collection.
• Scripture quotations adapted from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.