"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."

                            -Matthew 5:6 

I must say that this beatitude has to be my favorite. As the inspired Word of God, each of these Scriptures are of infinite value (see Psalm 19:10), but this one in particular speaks to me in a special way.

The Lord didn't say that those who hunger and thirst after righteousness might be filled, or that they would most likely be filled. No, He gave us an unconditional promise that they shall be filled. But what does it mean to be filled with righteousness? It means to be conformed more and more each day to the image of Christ Himself. It means to present our bodies a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1), and be emptied of ourselves so we can be filled with God. Just like turning on a light switch will not only dispel the darkness, but also fill the room with light, likewise, if we are emptied of ourselves we will be filled with God!

"Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."

                            -Romans 6:6 

God is not like human parents that force-feed vegetables to their children. He won't make us become righteous. If He gives it to us, it's because we were hungry for it, and therefore sought after it. As Christ said just two chapters later, if we ask, we will receive; if we seek, we will find; if we knock, the door will be opened (Matthew 7:7)

Empty me of the selfishness inside,
Every vain ambition and the poison of my pride,
And any foolish thing my heart holds to.
Lord empty me of me so I can be filled with You.*

*Empty Me- Chris Sligh
I do not own the copyrights to this material. Please obtain permission from the copyright holder before use.