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Hungering for Righteousness: The Promise of Matthew 5:6

Jdilly
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Hungering for Righteousness: The Promise of Matthew 5:6

Have you ever felt a deep, aching longing for something more—something that satisfies your soul? In Matthew 5:6, Jesus speaks directly to that yearning: “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (KJV).

This verse, nestled in the heart of the Beatitudes, is a powerful promise that stirs our spirits. It tells us that those who crave God’s righteousness will find true fulfillment. But what does it mean to “hunger and thirst after righteousness”? And how can we live out this Beatitude in our daily lives? Let’s dive into this life-changing verse and discover how it calls us to pursue God’s heart in 2025.

The Context of Matthew 5:6

Matthew 5:6 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus delivers the Beatitudes—a radical blueprint for life in God’s kingdom. Each Beatitude flips worldly values, declaring God’s blessing on those who embody kingdom virtues. Here, in the fourth Beatitude, Jesus addresses those who passionately seek righteousness, promising they will be satisfied. The imagery of hunger and thirst is vivid, evoking a desperate, all-consuming need, like a parched traveler in a desert or a famished soul craving nourishment.

This verse builds on the previous Beatitudes—poverty of spirit (5:3), mourning over sin (5:4), and meekness (5:5)—showing a progression toward a deep desire for God’s ways. As Enduring Word Bible Commentary notes, this hunger is not casual but an intense longing for righteousness that shapes one’s entire life.

Unpacking “Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness”

The Greek words for “hunger” (peinaō, Strong’s #3983) and “thirst” (dipsaō, Strong’s #1372) in Matthew 5:6 describe intense, physical cravings, according to Blue Letter Bible. Jesus uses these terms to convey a spiritual reality: a consuming desire for “righteousness” (dikaiosynē, Strong’s #1343), which BibleRef.com defines as “right standing with God” and “living in alignment with His will.” This righteousness has two dimensions:

  1. Personal Righteousness: A life marked by holiness, integrity, and obedience to God’s commands. As Benson’s Commentary explains, it’s about pursuing a character that reflects God’s justice and love.
  2. God’s Righteousness: Ultimately, this points to the imputed righteousness we receive through faith in Christ (Romans 3:22). The Treasury of Matthew suggests that this Beatitude anticipates the gospel, where our hunger for right standing with God is met through Jesus’ sacrifice.

The phrase “hunger and thirst” implies persistence and priority. It’s not a fleeting wish but a continual pursuit, as vital as food and water. Working Preacher emphasizes that this longing is for God’s kingdom to prevail—both in our hearts and in the world—bringing justice, mercy, and truth.

The Promise: “They Shall Be Filled”

The reward for this hunger is stunning: “they shall be filled” (chortazō, Strong’s #5526), meaning to be satisfied abundantly, like being filled to overflowing at a feast. Enduring Word clarifies that this filling comes from God Himself, who satisfies our deepest spiritual needs. In the immediate context, this points to the righteousness found in Christ, who fulfills our longing for reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:21). In a broader sense, it anticipates the fullness of God’s kingdom, where justice and peace reign (Isaiah 11:9).

Unlike worldly pursuits that leave us empty, this promise is certain. As BibleRef.com notes, those who seek God’s righteousness will find it, not through their efforts alone but through God’s grace. This filling may begin now—through the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives—and will be complete in eternity, when we dwell fully in God’s presence (Revelation 7:16-17).

Living Matthew 5:6 in 2025

In a world chasing temporary fixes—wealth, fame, or instant gratification—Matthew 5:6 calls us to a different pursuit. Here are three ways to hunger and thirst after righteousness today:

  1. Cultivate a Passion for God’s Word: The Bible is our guide to righteousness, revealing God’s character and will. Set aside time daily to read and meditate on Scripture, asking, “How can I align my life with God’s truth?” Psalm 119:105 reminds us that God’s Word is a lamp to our path. [Inference] Regular study can deepen your hunger for righteousness, though consistency depends on personal discipline.
  2. Pray for Justice and Renewal: Hungering for righteousness means longing for God’s kingdom to break through in our world. Pray for areas of injustice—poverty, oppression, or division—and ask God to use you as an agent of His love. Matthew 6:33 encourages us to seek God’s kingdom first. Joining a prayer group or advocacy effort can amplify this pursuit.
  3. Pursue Holiness with Grace: Righteousness isn’t about perfection but about a heart turned toward God. When you stumble, confess and trust God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Surround yourself with a community that encourages godly living, like a small group or church. [Inference] This can foster accountability, though the impact varies by community.

A Personal Reflection

This month, I found myself terribly overwhelmed by division and suffering that left me feeling anxious, panicked and helpless. 

In my frustration, I began praying for God’s righteousness to prevail. 

As I prayed and sought His guidance, I felt a shift. My anxiety starts to give way to hope, and I sensed God nudging me to act-. It wasn’t a grand gesture, but it filled me with purpose to seek Justice. 

That’s the beauty of this Beatitude: when we hunger for God’s ways, He satisfies us in ways the world never can.  Your experience may differ, but seeking righteousness often brings unexpected peace.

What’s your story? Has there been a time when hungering for God’s righteousness changed your perspective or actions? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear how this verse is alive in your life!

Why This Hunger Matters

Matthew 5:6 is a call to reorient our desires. In 2025, it’s easy to hunger for approval, success, or comfort, but Jesus invites us to crave something eternal: righteousness. This pursuit isn’t about earning God’s favor but about aligning our hearts with His. And the promise? We won’t be left wanting. God will fill us—now with His Spirit, and one day with the fullness of His kingdom.

Let’s close with a prayer:
Father, ignite in us a hunger and thirst for Your righteousness. Help us seek Your will above all else, trusting You to fill us with Your peace and purpose. Use us to bring Your kingdom’s justice and love to our world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

For Further Study:

  • Read the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) and reflect on how they build on each other.
  • Explore Psalm 42:1-2 or John 4:13-14 to see more about spiritual hunger and thirst.
  • Dive into resources like Enduring Word or BibleRef.com for deeper insights into Matthew 5.

Sources:

How is God stirring your heart to hunger for His righteousness? Share below, and let’s encourage each other to seek Him first!

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