Jesus
declared,
“Blessed
are
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness,
for
they
shall
be
filled.”
Matthew 5:6
Jesus
used
what
we
understand
within
the
physical
realm
to
explain
spiritual
truths.
This
is
exemplified
by
His
comparison
of
physical
hunger
and
thirst,
with
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst—because
the
two
are
similar.
To
more
fully
understand
this
correlation,
we
will
begin
by
exploring
the
dynamics
that
occur
when we are hungry for food, or thirsty for drink.
The
degree
(or
intensity)
of
our
hunger
and
thirst
will
influence
and
drive
our
behavior.
For
example,
when
we
are
a
little
hungry
or
somewhat
thirsty,
we
can
continue
to
do
whatever
we
are
doing,
our
thoughts
and
motivations
remain
focused
upon
those
things
at
hand,
and
we
can
delay
fulfilling
our
need
for
food
and
drink.
However,
as
we
become
hungrier
and
thirstier—especially
if
we
reach
a
point
of
being
famished
and
parched—the
focus
of
our
attention
and
behavior
will
transition
from
what
we
are
doing,
to
what
must
we
do
to
obtain
food
and
drink
to
fulfill
the
demands
of
our
body.
Those
things
that
were
important and had our attention will quickly “take a back seat” until our physical needs are met.
Another
interesting
characteristic
of
physical
hunger
and
thirst
is
that
the
“filling
effects”
of
food
and
drink
last
for
a
short
period
of
time.
We
will
become
hungry
and
thirsty
again,
and
we
will
want
more
food
and
drink. For in truth, the demands of our body require continual “filling.”
From
a
spiritual
perspective,
the
demands
by
our
body
for
continual
filling
of
food
and
water
are
similar
to
the
demands
by
our
body
(aka
our
flesh)
for
sin.
Jesus
explained
in
John
8:34,
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
whoever
commits
sin
is
a
slave
of
sin.”
Those
who
are
a
slave
to
sin
may
find
a
temporary
“fulfillment”
for
their
lustful
cravings.
However,
they
will
become
“hungry
and
thirsty”
again,
and
will
engage
in
more
sin
to
fulfill
the
demands
of
the
flesh.
Meanwhile,
the
cycle
of
sin
creates
a
stronger
slavery to the sin, deeper darkness, and delusional lies to justify the sin.
Characteristics of Spiritual Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
The
focus
of
the
declaration
by
Jesus
in
Matthew
5:6
was
based
upon
our
hunger
and
thirst
(desire)
for
righteousness.
The
biblical
meaning
of
righteousness
may
be
defined
as
morally
correct
behavior
that
aligns with the desires of God.
Jesus
knew
there
is
a
comparative
similarity
between
our
physical
hunger
and
thirst
for
food,
and
our
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness.
Those
who
have
a
little
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness
will
likely
continue
doing
whatever
they
are
presently
doing.
However,
those
who
realize
they
are
spiritually
“starving
and
dehydrated”
will
actively
seek
to
fulfill
the
needs
of
their
heart
and
soul.
And,
unlike
physical
food,
water
or
sin,
the
benefits
of
the
spiritual
food
and
water
Jesus
provides
are
satisfying to the soul. Jesus declared:
•
“I
am
the
bread
of
life.
Your
fathers
ate
the
manna
in
the
wilderness,
and
are
dead.
This
is
the
bread
which
comes
down
from
heaven,
that
one
may
eat
of
it
and
not
die.
I
am
the
living
bread
which
came
down
from
heaven.
If
anyone
eats
of
this
bread,
he
will
live
forever;
and
the
bread
that
I
shall
give
is
My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.”
John 6:48-51
•
“Whoever
drinks
of
the
water
that
I
shall
give
him
will
never
thirst.
But
the
water
that
I
shall
give
him
will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
John 4:14
Jesus
also
said
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
after
righteousness
are
blessed.
Due
to
our
sinful
nature,
we
do
not
desire
God
and
will
rebel
against
His
righteousness.
As
such,
if
a
person
develops
a
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness—it
is
because
of
the
influence
and
workings
of
the
Holy
Spirit—and
therefore
are blessed by God. These blessings are revealed in the following words of Jesus:
•
“But
the
Helper,
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
the
Father
will
send
in
My
name,
He
will
teach
you
all
things.”
John 14:26
•
“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.”
John 6:44
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
illuminates
one’s
condition
in
darkness,
and
it
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
draws
us
to
God
by
creating
a
deep
and
motivating
desire
within
the
heart
to
seek
freedom
from
the
consequences
of
sin and unrighteousness, such as:
•
Internal turmoil and uncontrollable emotions such as guilt, shame, hatred, anger, and fear.
•
Overpowering addiction, dependence, and compulsive behaviors.
•
A repressed awareness they are causing harm to themselves and others.
•
The possibility of living for eternity in hell.
Jesus
Christ—God’s
Son
who
willingly
gave
His
life
as
a
sacrificial
atonement
for
our
sins—who
gave
us
a
means
to
be
forgiven—summarized
the
difference
between
a
heart
that
desires
righteousness,
and
a
heart
that
prefers
unrighteousness.
“He
who
believes
in
Him
is
not
condemned;
but
he
who
does
not
believe
is
condemned
already,
because
he
has
not
believed
in
the
name
of
the
only
begotten
Son
of
God.
And
this
is
the
condemnation,
that
the
light
has
come
into
the
world,
and
men
loved
darkness
rather
than
light,
because
their
deeds
were
evil.
For
everyone
practicing
evil
hates
the
light
and
does
not
come
to
the
light,
lest
his
deeds
should
be
exposed.
But
he
who
does
the
truth
comes
to
the
light,
that
his
deeds
may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.” John 3:18-21
Jesus also declared,
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8
How Do I Attain the Righteousness of God?
Whenever
we
evaluate
ourselves
by
considering
our
thoughts,
reflecting
upon
our
behavior,
and
analyzing
our
words…we
will
often
not
see
the
righteousness
of
God,
but
rather,
the
ugliness
of
our
sinful
nature.
What’s
more,
if
we
also
consider
aspects
of
ourselves
that
we
think
are
righteous—when
compared
to
God’s
righteousness—we
quickly
realize
how
far
we
fall
short
of
God’s
definition
of
righteousness.
“But
we
are
all
like
an
unclean
thing,
and
all
our
righteousnesses
are
like
filthy
rags.”
Isaiah 64:6
Jesus
said,
“For
I
say
to
you,
that
unless
your
righteousness
exceeds
the
righteousness
of
the
scribes
and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20
God
gave
the
Israelites
(via
Moses)
the
Law—which
was
comprised
of
behavioral
standards
that
defined
His
minimal
expectations
for
righteousness.
In
addition,
God
also
gave
the
Israelites
a
means
to
receive
forgiveness
if
they
failed
to
adhere
(or
sinned)
by
breaking
God’s
laws
(such
as
one
of
the
Ten
Commandments).
Scribes
studied
the
Law,
transcribed
(made
copies
of)
the
Law,
interpreted
the
Law,
and
taught
the
Law.
The
Pharisees
were
a
religious
group
within
Judaism
that
strictly
adhered
to
every
aspect
of
the
Law.
Their perceived righteousness was based upon their complete compliance with the Law.
If
you
evaluated
the
lives
of
the
scribes
and
Pharisees,
you
would
likely
agree
their
behavior
and
actions
complied
with
the
standards
defined
by
God.
They
even
added
additional
laws
to
make
sure
each
Israelite
kept
within
strict
“boundaries
of
behavior.”
And,
based
upon
their
commitment
to
compliance
and
flawed
human
reasoning,
one
can
understand
why
they
considered
themselves
as
being
righteous—because
they
adhered
to
God’s
laws.
However,
they
completely
missed
the
point
of
God’s
grace
via
the
Law,
and
His
forgiveness
of
their
sins
via
the
sacrifice
of
animals.
They
sought
righteousness
via
their
self-will
and
determination
to
comply,
and
not
by
the
transformational
power
of
God’s grace and forgiveness.
Spiritual
truth:
God
is
more
interested
in
the
desires
of
our
heart
to
seek
and
know
Him,
than
our
futile
efforts to become righteous.
Click
this
link
Matthew
23
to
read
how
Jesus
confronted
the
scribes
and
Pharisees
by
declaring
their
self-
centeredness,
hardened
hearts,
and
hypocrisy—which
are
consequences
of
human
attempts
to
become
the righteousness of God.
So, here are a couple of questions to consider. Determine which one is true.
1
.
Do you think God would ask something of us that we are unable to accomplish?
2
.
Do you think God would provide us with a means to become what He desires?
Important spiritual truths:
1
.
It is impossible to attain the righteousness of God based upon our own self-will and efforts.
2
.
We are completely dependent upon God for everything, including our righteousness.
3
.
If we were able to attain the righteousness of God on our own:
a
.
The sacrificial death of Jesus Christ was in vain.
b
.
We
would
be
filled
with
self-centered
pride,
our
hearts
would
harden,
and
we
would
fail
to
love
God and others as God loves us.
4
.
Righteousness is obtained by our faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.
a
.
“For
He
made
Him
who
knew
no
sin
to
be
sin
for
us,
that
we
might
become
the
righteousness
of
God in Him.”
2 Corinthians 5:21
b
.
“For
in
it
the
righteousness
of
God
is
revealed
from
faith
to
faith;
as
it
is
written,
‘The
just
shall
live
by faith.’”
Romans 1:17
Righteousness = Faith in Forgiveness for Our Unrighteousness
God
gave
us
all
that
we
need
to
attain
righteousness:
faith.
“God
has
dealt
to
each
one
a
measure
of
faith.”
Romans
12:3
But
what’s
more,
when
we
use
our
God-given
faith
to
believe
in
His
Son,
Jesus
Christ,
it
opens
the
door
not
only
salvation
and
eternal
life,
but
also
the
righteousness
of
God.
As
such,
faith in God has transformational power, and operates within the spiritual realm.
•
“Abraham ‘believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
Galatians 3:6
•
“For
by
grace
you
have
been
saved
through
faith,
and
that
not
of
yourselves;
it
is
the
gift
of
God,
not
of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Ephesians 2:8-9
9
•
“Where
is
boasting
then?
It
is
excluded.
By
what
law?
Of
works?
No,
but
by
the
law
of
faith.
Therefore
we
conclude
that
a
man
is
justified
by
faith
apart
from
the
deeds
of
the
law.”
Romans
3:27-
28
It
is
our
faith
in
Jesus
Christ—in
what
He
did
for
us
on
the
cross
by
dying
for
our
sins—that
provides
us
with
the
means
to
fulfill
our
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness.
In
addition,
each
time
we
are
unrighteous—because
of
our
faith—we
are
able
to
ask
for
and
receive
forgiveness.
It
is
God’s
grace
and
His
love
that
creates
a
loathing
and
repugnance
towards
our
unrighteousness;
and
a
greater
desire
to
seek
and
please
Him,
and
not
ourselves—and
as
we
yield
to
the
guidance
of
the
Holy
Spirit
for
the
glory
of God.
Paul
(a
Law-compliant
Pharisee
who
persecuted
Christians—who
was
chosen
by
the
resurrected
Jesus
to
proclaim
His
gospel
to
the
Gentiles)
declared
the
true
source
and
means
of
obtaining
righteousness.
“But
what
things
were
gain
to
me,
these
I
have
counted
loss
for
Christ.
Yet
indeed
I
also
count
all
things
loss
for
the
excellence
of
the
knowledge
of
Christ
Jesus
my
Lord,
for
whom
I
have
suffered
the
loss
of
all
things,
and
count
them
as
rubbish,
that
I
may
gain
Christ
and
be
found
in
Him,
not
having
my
own
righteousness,
which
is
from
the
law,
but
that
which
is
through
faith
in
Christ,
the
righteousness
which
is
from
God
by
faith;
that
I
may
know
Him
and
the
power
of
His
resurrection,
and
the
fellowship
of
His
sufferings,
being
conformed
to
His
death,
if,
by
any
means,
I
may
attain
to
the
resurrection
from
the
dead.” Philippians 3:7-11
“But
now
the
righteousness
of
God
apart
from
the
law
is
revealed,
being
witnessed
by
the
Law
and
the
Prophets,
even
the
righteousness
of
God,
through
faith
in
Jesus
Christ,
to
all
and
on
all
who
believe.
For
there
is
no
difference;
for
all
have
sinned
and
fall
short
of
the
glory
of
God,
being
justified
freely
by
His
grace
through
the
redemption
that
is
in
Christ
Jesus,
whom
God
set
forth
as
a
propitiation
by
His
blood,
through
faith,
to
demonstrate
His
righteousness,
because
in
His
forbearance
God
had
passed
over
the
sins
that
were
previously
committed,
to
demonstrate
at
the
present
time
His
righteousness,
that
He
might
be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” Romans 3:21-26
Spiritual Righteousness
Righteousness—from
a
spiritual
perspective—glorifies
God.
Jesus
demonstrated
spiritual
righteousness
because
He
obediently
pointed
to
God
and
glorified
Him
in
every
word,
action
and
miracle.
As
such,
the
desires of Christians who hunger and thirst for His righteousness will seek to:
•
Become less like themselves, and more like Jesus.
•
Determine what is acceptable to the Lord.
•
Evaluate their motivations and deeds to determine if they are based upon glorifying of God.
•
Allow the light of Jesus to illuminate and dispel darkness via what we say and do.
Jesus
declared,
“I
am
the
light
of
the
world.
He
who
follows
Me
shall
not
walk
in
darkness,
but
have
the
light of life.” John 8:12
“For
you
were
once
darkness,
but
now
you
are
light
in
the
Lord.
Walk
as
children
of
light
(for
the
fruit
of
the
Spirit
is
in
all
goodness,
righteousness,
and
truth),
finding
out
what
is
acceptable
to
the
Lord.”
Ephesians 5:8-10
Two Additional Aspects of Righteousness: Justification and Sanctification
Justification
We
will
never
attain
the
degree
of
righteousness
God
desires
in
us,
and
we
will
never
be
perfect.
“All
we
like
sheep
have
gone
astray;
we
have
turned,
every
one,
to
his
own
way;
and
the
Lord
has
laid
on
Him
the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6
Jesus
Christ
was
the
only
person
who
lived
and
did
not
sin—which
made
Him
the
perfect
sacrifice
for
our
sins.
We
were
redeemed
with,
“The
precious
blood
of
Christ,
as
of
a
lamb
without
blemish
and
without
spot.” 1 Peter 1:19
Jesus
said
(regarding
Himself),
“For
God
did
not
send
His
Son
into
the
world
to
condemn
the
world,
but
that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17
“Therefore,
having
been
justified
by
faith,
we
have
peace
with
God
through
our
Lord
Jesus
Christ.”
Romans 5:1
God
declares
we
are
righteous
(sinless)—not
by
our
works—but
by
our
faith
in
the
sacrificial
death
of
Jesus
when
He
took
the
punishment
of
our
sins
into
His
body
on
the
cross.
“Who
Himself
bore
our
sins
in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness.” 1 Peter 2:24
Justified
can
be
interpreted
as
“Just-as-if-I’d”
did
not
sin.
God’s
forgiveness
through
our
faith
in
Jesus
is
absolute.
In
fact,
forgiven
sin
no
longer
exists.
While
similar,
it
is
beyond
what
happens
when
we
delete
a
file
on
our
computer.
Although
we
may
delete
a
file
and
it
is
no
longer
accessible,
it
still
resides
on
the
hard
drive
and
may
be
“resurrected”
via
special
software
tools.
However,
God
not
only
deletes
the
file,
He
also
permanently
removes
it
from
the
“hard
drive”
so
that
it
is
not
recoverable
via
any
means.
What’s
more, God does this for His sake. His word declares:
•
“I,
even
I,
am
He
who
blots
out
your
transgressions
for
My
own
sake;
and
I
will
not
remember
your
sins.”
Isaiah 43:25
•
“As
far
as
the
east
is
from
the
west,
so
far
has
He
removed
our
transgressions
from
us.”
Psalms
103:12
•
“Blessed
are
those
whose
lawless
deeds
are
forgiven,
and
whose
sins
are
covered;
blessed
is
the
man to whom the Lord shall not impute sin.”
Romans 4:7-8
We
are
justified
because
of
our
faith
in
what
Jesus
did
for
us
on
the
cross.
Imagine
what
it
will
be
like
when
we
stand
before
God…and
the
discomfort
we
may
experience
as
our
memory
reflects
upon
the
sins
we
committed…and
as
we
attempt
to
seek
forgiveness...God
responds,
“Because
of
your
faith,
your
sins
do
not
exist!”
“Through
one
Man’s
righteous
act
the
free
gift
came
to
all
men,
resulting
in
justification
of life ... so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” Romans 5:18-19
Sanctification
Sanctification
is
the
process
that
transforms
a
“hungry
and
thirsty”
Christian
into
the
righteousness
of
God.
It
is
the
day-to-day
life
experiences
(trials,
tribulations,
successes,
failures,
and
lessons
learned—combined
with
the
influence
and
guidance
of
the
Holy
Spirit—that
changes
us
from
within
and
cleanses us from unrighteousness.
“But
this
Man,
after
He
had
offered
one
sacrifice
for
sins
forever,
sat
down
at
the
right
hand
of
God,
from
that
time
waiting
till
His
enemies
are
made
His
footstool.
For
by
one
offering
He
has
perfected
forever
those who are being sanctified.” Hebrews 10:12-14
“For
the
grace
of
God
that
brings
salvation
has
appeared
to
all
men,
teaching
us
that,
denying
ungodliness
and
worldly
lusts,
we
should
live
soberly,
righteously,
and
godly
in
the
present
age,
looking
for
the
blessed
hope
and
glorious
appearing
of
our
great
God
and
Savior
Jesus
Christ,
who
gave
Himself
for
us,
that
He
might
redeem
us
from
every
lawless
deed
and
purify
for
Himself
His
own
special
people,
zealous for good works.” Titus 2:11-14
“Remind
them
to
be
subject
to
rulers
and
authorities,
to
obey,
to
be
ready
for
every
good
work,
to
speak
evil
of
no
one,
to
be
peaceable,
gentle,
showing
all
humility
to
all
men.
For
we
ourselves
were
also
once
foolish,
disobedient,
deceived,
serving
various
lusts
and
pleasures,
living
in
malice
and
envy,
hateful
and
hating
one
another.
But
when
the
kindness
and
the
love
of
God
our
Savior
toward
man
appeared,
not
by
works
of
righteousness
which
we
have
done,
but
according
to
His
mercy
He
saved
us,
through
the
washing
of
regeneration
and
renewing
of
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
He
poured
out
on
us
abundantly
through
Jesus
Christ
our
Savior,
that
having
been
justified
by
His
grace
we
should
become
heirs
according
to
the
hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:1-7
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
“If
we
confess
our
sins,
He
is
faithful
and
just
to
forgive
us
our
sins
and
to
cleanse
us
from
all
unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
Can
you
identify
at
least
one
area
of
righteousness
that
you
hunger
and
thirst
after?
If
yes,
which
of
the
following is relevant and prudent:
•
Take responsibility for the unrighteousness.
•
Make a list of the:
o
Lies that are associated with the unrighteousness.
o
Triggers that initiate unrighteousness.
o
Different means, thoughts, or perceptions that are used to justify the unrighteousness.
o
Consequences
of
the
unrighteousness,
such
as
guilt,
pain,
shame,
internal
turmoil,
and
fear;
harm
to those we love; and separation from God.
•
Recognize it is God’s love for us that He desires us to:
o
No longer be bound in slavery and held in darkness because of the unrighteousness.
o
Experience the peace and joy of His righteousness.
•
Exercise your faith in Jesus Christ by:
o
Asking for forgiveness.
o
Requesting spiritual strength to overcome.
o
Obeying the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
•
Read and internalize God’s word.
•
Seek the assistance of a trusted accountability partner.
•
Make a decision to actively avoid all “triggers” that initiate unrighteousness.
•
Forgive those who have harmed you—as you have been forgiven—for your spiritual benefit.
All for His glory, for He alone is worthy!
Ha
rold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor.
The
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed
after
reading
“Blessed
are
those
who
hunger and thirst for righteousness.”
The
following
questions
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
the
determination
of
personal
opinions
and/or discovering how the lesson content illuminates our lives. As such, no answers are provided.
Questions
An analogy may be defined as a means to explain an unfamiliar topic by comparing it to a familiar topic.
•
How
is
a
physical
hunger
and
thirst
for
food
and
drink
similar
to
a
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness?
•
What
happens
to
our
body,
our
thoughts,
and
our
motivations
as
we
become
increasingly
hungry
and
thirsty?
•
What would cause someone to develop a hunger and thirst for righteousness?
•
What would cause someone to not develop a hunger and thirst for righteousness?
•
What are the benefits (rewards) of His righteousness?
•
Isaiah 64:6 states,
“We are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are like filthy rags.”
•
What is meant by “
We are all like an unclean thing?”
•
Why is our righteousness
“like filthy rags?”
Jesus
said,
“For
I
say
to
you,
that
unless
your
righteousness
exceeds
the
righteousness
of
the
scribes
and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20.
Reference
Matthew 23
to answer the questions below regarding the scribes and Pharisees:
•
Why did Jesus reference the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees?
•
What were they doing right?
•
What were they doing wrong and why?
•
Define at least 3 consequences of their approach to righteousness.
•
Imagine you had the opportunity to speak to them. What would you say?
Scripture
declares
faith
in
the
sacrificial
death
of
Jesus
Christ
as
an
atonement
for
our
sins
is
the
“key”
that opens the door to salvation and righteousness.
•
How does this differ from other religions?
•
Is the nature and wisdom of God revealed in this requirement? If yes, explain.
The lesson described justification and sanctification.
•
What is the difference between justification and sanctification?
•
Which one do you think primarily supports the relationship between God and His faithful?
•
Which one do you think primarily supports the interaction between His faithful and the unrighteous?
•
Do
you
think
justification
and
sanctification
work
together
to
enhance
the
righteousness
of
a
Christian? Explain.
You may download a PDF version of the questions by clicking on this button.
Can you think of someone who may benefit from this lesson? If yes, PASS IT ON!
The words of Jesus Christ are in
red text.
The words of Jesus
are in red text.
Jesus
declared,
“Blessed
are
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
Jesus
used
what
we
understand
within
the
physical
realm
to
explain
spiritual
truths.
This
is
exemplified
by
His
comparison
of
physical
hunger
and
thirst,
with
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst—because
the
two
are
similar.
To
more
fully
understand
this
correlation,
we
will
begin
by
exploring
the
dynamics
that
occur
when
we
are
hungry
for
food,
or
thirsty for drink.
The
degree
(or
intensity)
of
our
hunger
and
thirst
will
influence
and
drive
our
behavior.
For
example,
when
we
are
a
little
hungry
or
somewhat
thirsty,
we
can
continue
to
do
whatever
we
are
doing,
our
thoughts
and
motivations
remain
focused
upon
those
things
at
hand,
and
we
can
delay
fulfilling
our
need
for
food
and
drink.
However,
as
we
become
hungrier
and
thirstier—especially
if
we
reach
a
point
of
being
famished
and
parched—the
focus
of
our
attention
and
behavior
will
transition
from
what
we
are
doing,
to
what
must
we
do
to
obtain
food
and
drink
to
fulfill
the
demands
of
our
body.
Those
things
that
were
important
and
had
our
attention
will
quickly
“take
a
back
seat” until our physical needs are met.
Another
interesting
characteristic
of
physical
hunger
and
thirst
is
that
the
“filling
effects”
of
food
and
drink
last
for
a
short
period
of
time.
We
will
become
hungry
and
thirsty
again,
and
we
will
want
more
food
and
drink.
For
in
truth,
the demands of our body require continual “filling.”
From
a
spiritual
perspective,
the
demands
by
our
body
for
continual
filling
of
food
and
water
are
similar
to
the
demands
by
our
body
(aka
our
flesh)
for
sin.
Jesus
explained
in
John
8:34,
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
whoever
commits
sin
is
a
slave
of
sin.”
Those
who
are
a
slave
to
sin
may
find
a
temporary
“fulfillment”
for
their
lustful
cravings.
However,
they
will
become
“hungry
and
thirsty”
again,
and
will
engage
in
more
sin
to
fulfill
the
demands
of
the
flesh.
Meanwhile,
the
cycle
of
sin
creates
a
stronger
slavery
to
the
sin,
deeper
darkness,
and
delusional lies to justify the sin.
Characteristics
of
Spiritual
Hunger
and
Thirst
for
Righteousness
The
focus
of
the
declaration
by
Jesus
in
Matthew
5:6
was
based
upon
our
hunger
and
thirst
(desire)
for
righteousness.
The
biblical
meaning
of
righteousness
may
be
defined
as
morally
correct
behavior
that
aligns
with the desires of God.
Jesus
knew
there
is
a
comparative
similarity
between
our
physical
hunger
and
thirst
for
food,
and
our
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness.
Those
who
have
a
little
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness
will
likely
continue
doing
whatever
they
are
presently
doing.
However,
those
who
realize
they
are
spiritually
“starving
and
dehydrated”
will
actively
seek
to
fulfill
the
needs
of
their
heart
and
soul.
And,
unlike
physical
food,
water
or
sin,
the
benefits
of
the
spiritual
food
and
water
Jesus
provides
are
satisfying
to
the soul. Jesus declared:
•
“I
am
the
bread
of
life.
Your
fathers
ate
the
manna
in
the
wilderness,
and
are
dead.
This
is
the
bread
which
comes
down
from
heaven,
that
one
may
eat
of
it
and
not
die.
I
am
the
living
bread
which
came
down
from
heaven.
If
anyone
eats
of
this
bread,
he
will
live
forever;
and
the
bread
that
I
shall
give
is
My
flesh,
which
I
shall
give
for
the
life
of
the
world.”
John
6:48-
51
•
“Whoever
drinks
of
the
water
that
I
shall
give
him
will
never
thirst.
But
the
water
that
I
shall
give
him
will
become
in
him
a
fountain
of
water
springing
up
into
everlasting life.”
John 4:14
Jesus
also
said
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
after
righteousness
are
blessed.
Due
to
our
sinful
nature,
we
do
not
desire
God
and
will
rebel
against
His
righteousness.
As
such,
if
a
person
develops
a
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness—it
is
because
of
the
influence
and
workings
of
the
Holy
Spirit—and
therefore
are
blessed
by
God.
These
blessings
are
revealed
in
the
following
words of Jesus:
•
“But
the
Helper,
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
the
Father
will
send
in
My
name,
He
will
teach
you
all
things.”
John
14:26
•
“No
one
can
come
to
Me
unless
the
Father
who
sent
Me draws him.”
John 6:44
It
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
illuminates
one’s
condition
in
darkness,
and
it
is
the
Holy
Spirit
who
draws
us
to
God
by
creating
a
deep
and
motivating
desire
within
the
heart
to
seek
freedom
from
the
consequences
of
sin
and
unrighteousness, such as:
•
Internal
turmoil
and
uncontrollable
emotions
such
as
guilt, shame, hatred, anger, and fear.
•
Overpowering
addiction,
dependence,
and
compulsive
behaviors.
•
A
repressed
awareness
they
are
causing
harm
to
themselves and others.
•
The possibility of living for eternity in hell.
Jesus
Christ—God’s
Son
who
willingly
gave
His
life
as
a
sacrificial
atonement
for
our
sins—who
gave
us
a
means
to
be
forgiven—summarized
the
difference
between
a
heart
that
desires
righteousness,
and
a
heart
that
prefers
unrighteousness.
“He
who
believes
in
Him
is
not
condemned;
but
he
who
does
not
believe
is
condemned
already,
because
he
has
not
believed
in
the
name
of
the
only
begotten
Son
of
God.
And
this
is
the
condemnation,
that
the
light
has
come
into
the
world,
and
men
loved
darkness
rather
than
light,
because
their
deeds
were
evil.
For
everyone
practicing
evil
hates
the
light
and
does
not
come
to
the
light,
lest
his
deeds
should
be
exposed.
But
he
who
does
the
truth
comes
to
the
light,
that
his
deeds
may
be
clearly
seen,
that
they
have
been
done
in
God.”
John 3:18-21
Jesus
also
declared,
“Blessed
are
the
pure
in
heart,
for
they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8
How Do I Attain the Righteousness of God?
Whenever
we
evaluate
ourselves
by
considering
our
thoughts,
reflecting
upon
our
behavior,
and
analyzing
our
words…we
will
often
not
see
the
righteousness
of
God,
but
rather,
the
ugliness
of
our
sinful
nature.
What’s
more,
if
we
also
consider
aspects
of
ourselves
that
we
think
are
righteous—when
compared
to
God’s
righteousness—we
quickly
realize
how
far
we
fall
short
of
God’s
definition
of
righteousness.
“But
we
are
all
like
an
unclean
thing,
and
all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6
Jesus
said,
“For
I
say
to
you,
that
unless
your
righteousness
exceeds
the
righteousness
of
the
scribes
and
Pharisees,
you
will
by
no
means
enter
the
kingdom
of
heaven.” Matthew 5:20
God
gave
the
Israelites
(via
Moses)
the
Law—which
was
comprised
of
behavioral
standards
that
defined
His
minimal
expectations
for
righteousness.
In
addition,
God
also
gave
the
Israelites
a
means
to
receive
forgiveness
if
they
failed
to
adhere
(or
sinned)
by
breaking
God’s
laws
(such as one of the Ten Commandments).
Scribes
studied
the
Law,
transcribed
(made
copies
of)
the
Law,
interpreted
the
Law,
and
taught
the
Law.
The
Pharisees
were
a
religious
group
within
Judaism
that
strictly
adhered
to
every
aspect
of
the
Law.
Their
perceived
righteousness
was
based
upon
their
complete
compliance with the Law.
If
you
evaluated
the
lives
of
the
scribes
and
Pharisees,
you
would
likely
agree
their
behavior
and
actions
complied
with
the
standards
defined
by
God.
They
even
added
additional
laws
to
make
sure
each
Israelite
kept
within
strict
“boundaries
of
behavior.”
And,
based
upon
their
commitment
to
compliance
and
flawed
human
reasoning,
one
can
understand
why
they
considered
themselves
as
being
righteous—because
they
adhered
to
God’s
laws.
However,
they
completely
missed
the
point
of
God’s
grace
via
the
Law,
and
His
forgiveness
of
their
sins
via
the
sacrifice
of
animals.
They
sought
righteousness
via
their
self-will
and
determination
to
comply,
and
not
by
the
transformational power of God’s grace and forgiveness.
Spiritual
truth:
God
is
more
interested
in
the
desires
of
our
heart
to
seek
and
know
Him,
than
our
futile
efforts
to
become righteous.
Click
this
link
Matthew
23
to
read
how
Jesus
confronted
the
scribes
and
Pharisees
by
declaring
their
self-
centeredness,
hardened
hearts,
and
hypocrisy—which
are
consequences
of
human
attempts
to
become
the
righteousness of God.
So,
here
are
a
couple
of
questions
to
consider.
Determine
which one is true.
1
.
Do
you
think
God
would
ask
something
of
us
that
we
are unable to accomplish?
2
.
Do
you
think
God
would
provide
us
with
a
means
to
become what He desires?
Important spiritual truths:
1
.
It
is
impossible
to
attain
the
righteousness
of
God
based upon our own self-will and efforts.
2
.
We
are
completely
dependent
upon
God
for
everything, including our righteousness.
3
.
If
we
were
able
to
attain
the
righteousness
of
God
on
our own:
a
.
The sacrificial death of Jesus Christ was in vain.
b
.
We
would
be
filled
with
self-centered
pride,
our
hearts
would
harden,
and
we
would
fail
to
love
God
and others as God loves us.
4
.
Righteousness
is
obtained
by
our
faith
in
His
Son,
Jesus Christ.
a
.
“For
He
made
Him
who
knew
no
sin
to
be
sin
for
us,
that
we
might
become
the
righteousness
of
God
in Him.”
2 Corinthians 5:21
b
.
“For
in
it
the
righteousness
of
God
is
revealed
from
faith
to
faith;
as
it
is
written,
‘The
just
shall
live
by
faith.’”
Romans 1:17
Righteousness = Faith in Forgiveness for Our
Unrighteousness
God
gave
us
all
that
we
need
to
attain
righteousness:
faith.
“God
has
dealt
to
each
one
a
measure
of
faith.”
Romans
12:3
But
what’s
more,
when
we
use
our
God-
given
faith
to
believe
in
His
Son,
Jesus
Christ,
it
opens
the
door
not
only
salvation
and
eternal
life,
but
also
the
righteousness
of
God.
As
such,
faith
in
God
has
transformational
power,
and
operates
within
the
spiritual
realm.
•
“Abraham
‘believed
God,
and
it
was
accounted
to
him
for righteousness.”
Galatians 3:6
•
“For
by
grace
you
have
been
saved
through
faith,
and
that
not
of
yourselves;
it
is
the
gift
of
God,
not
of
works,
lest anyone should boast.”
Ephesians 2:8-9
9
•
“Where
is
boasting
then?
It
is
excluded.
By
what
law?
Of
works?
No,
but
by
the
law
of
faith.
Therefore
we
conclude
that
a
man
is
justified
by
faith
apart
from
the
deeds of the law.”
Romans 3:27-28
It
is
our
faith
in
Jesus
Christ—in
what
He
did
for
us
on
the
cross
by
dying
for
our
sins—that
provides
us
with
the
means
to
fulfill
our
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness.
In
addition,
each
time
we
are
unrighteous—because
of
our
faith—we
are
able
to
ask
for
and
receive
forgiveness.
It
is
God’s
grace
and
His
love
that
creates
a
loathing
and
repugnance
towards
our
unrighteousness;
and
a
greater
desire
to
seek
and
please
Him,
and
not
ourselves—and
as
we
yield
to
the
guidance
of
the
Holy
Spirit
for
the
glory
of
God.
Paul
(a
Law-compliant
Pharisee
who
persecuted
Christians—who
was
chosen
by
the
resurrected
Jesus
to
proclaim
His
gospel
to
the
Gentiles)
declared
the
true
source
and
means
of
obtaining
righteousness.
“But
what
things
were
gain
to
me,
these
I
have
counted
loss
for
Christ.
Yet
indeed
I
also
count
all
things
loss
for
the
excellence
of
the
knowledge
of
Christ
Jesus
my
Lord,
for
whom
I
have
suffered
the
loss
of
all
things,
and
count
them
as
rubbish,
that
I
may
gain
Christ
and
be
found
in
Him,
not
having
my
own
righteousness,
which
is
from
the
law,
but
that
which
is
through
faith
in
Christ,
the
righteousness
which
is
from
God
by
faith;
that
I
may
know
Him
and
the
power
of
His
resurrection,
and
the
fellowship
of
His
sufferings,
being
conformed
to
His
death,
if,
by
any
means,
I
may
attain
to
the
resurrection
from
the
dead.”
Philippians 3:7-11
“But
now
the
righteousness
of
God
apart
from
the
law
is
revealed,
being
witnessed
by
the
Law
and
the
Prophets,
even
the
righteousness
of
God,
through
faith
in
Jesus
Christ,
to
all
and
on
all
who
believe.
For
there
is
no
difference;
for
all
have
sinned
and
fall
short
of
the
glory
of
God,
being
justified
freely
by
His
grace
through
the
redemption
that
is
in
Christ
Jesus,
whom
God
set
forth
as
a
propitiation
by
His
blood,
through
faith,
to
demonstrate
His
righteousness,
because
in
His
forbearance
God
had
passed
over
the
sins
that
were
previously
committed,
to
demonstrate
at
the
present
time
His
righteousness,
that
He
might
be
just
and
the
justifier
of
the
one
who
has
faith
in Jesus.” Romans 3:21-26
Spiritual Righteousness
Righteousness—from
a
spiritual
perspective—glorifies
God.
Jesus
demonstrated
spiritual
righteousness
because
He
obediently
pointed
to
God
and
glorified
Him
in
every
word,
action
and
miracle.
As
such,
the
desires
of
Christians
who
hunger
and
thirst
for
His
righteousness
will
seek to:
•
Become less like themselves, and more like Jesus.
•
Determine what is acceptable to the Lord.
•
Evaluate
their
motivations
and
deeds
to
determine
if
they are based upon glorifying of God.
•
Allow
the
light
of
Jesus
to
illuminate
and
dispel
darkness via what we say and do.
Jesus
declared,
“I
am
the
light
of
the
world.
He
who
follows
Me
shall
not
walk
in
darkness,
but
have
the
light
of
life.” John 8:12
“For
you
were
once
darkness,
but
now
you
are
light
in
the
Lord.
Walk
as
children
of
light
(for
the
fruit
of
the
Spirit
is
in
all
goodness,
righteousness,
and
truth),
finding
out
what
is acceptable to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10
Two Additional Aspects of Righteousness:
Justification and Sanctification
Justification
We
will
never
attain
the
degree
of
righteousness
God
desires
in
us,
and
we
will
never
be
perfect.
“All
we
like
sheep
have
gone
astray;
we
have
turned,
every
one,
to
his
own
way;
and
the
Lord
has
laid
on
Him
the
iniquity
of
us all.” Isaiah 53:6
Jesus
Christ
was
the
only
person
who
lived
and
did
not
sin—which
made
Him
the
perfect
sacrifice
for
our
sins.
We
were
redeemed
with,
“The
precious
blood
of
Christ,
as
of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19
Jesus
said
(regarding
Himself),
“For
God
did
not
send
His
Son
into
the
world
to
condemn
the
world,
but
that
the
world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17
“Therefore,
having
been
justified
by
faith,
we
have
peace
with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1
God
declares
we
are
righteous
(sinless)—not
by
our
works—but
by
our
faith
in
the
sacrificial
death
of
Jesus
when
He
took
the
punishment
of
our
sins
into
His
body
on
the
cross.
“Who
Himself
bore
our
sins
in
His
own
body
on
the
tree,
that
we,
having
died
to
sins,
might
live
for
righteousness.” 1 Peter 2:24
Justified
can
be
interpreted
as
“Just-as-if-I’d”
did
not
sin.
God’s
forgiveness
through
our
faith
in
Jesus
is
absolute.
In
fact,
forgiven
sin
no
longer
exists.
While
similar,
it
is
beyond
what
happens
when
we
delete
a
file
on
our
computer.
Although
we
may
delete
a
file
and
it
is
no
longer
accessible,
it
still
resides
on
the
hard
drive
and
may
be
“resurrected”
via
special
software
tools.
However,
God
not
only
deletes
the
file,
He
also
permanently
removes
it
from
the
“hard
drive”
so
that
it
is
not
recoverable
via
any
means.
What’s
more,
God
does
this
for
His
sake.
His
word declares:
•
“I,
even
I,
am
He
who
blots
out
your
transgressions
for
My
own
sake;
and
I
will
not
remember
your
sins.”
Isaiah 43:25
•
“As
far
as
the
east
is
from
the
west,
so
far
has
He
removed our transgressions from us.”
Psalms 103:12
•
“Blessed
are
those
whose
lawless
deeds
are
forgiven,
and
whose
sins
are
covered;
blessed
is
the
man
to
whom the Lord shall not impute sin.”
Romans 4:7-8
We
are
justified
because
of
our
faith
in
what
Jesus
did
for
us
on
the
cross.
Imagine
what
it
will
be
like
when
we
stand
before
God…and
the
discomfort
we
may
experience
as
our
memory
reflects
upon
the
sins
we
committed…and
as
we
attempt
to
seek
forgiveness...God
responds,
“Because
of
your
faith,
your
sins
do
not
exist!”
“Through
one
Man’s
righteous
act
the
free
gift
came
to
all
men,
resulting
in
justification
of
life
...
so
also
by
one
Man’s
obedience
many
will
be
made
righteous.”
Romans
5:18-
19
Sanctification
Sanctification
is
the
process
that
transforms
a
“hungry
and
thirsty”
Christian
into
the
righteousness
of
God.
It
is
the
day-to-day
life
experiences
(trials,
tribulations,
successes,
failures,
and
lessons
learned—combined
with
the
influence
and
guidance
of
the
Holy
Spirit—that
changes
us from within and cleanses us from unrighteousness.
“But
this
Man,
after
He
had
offered
one
sacrifice
for
sins
forever,
sat
down
at
the
right
hand
of
God,
from
that
time
waiting
till
His
enemies
are
made
His
footstool.
For
by
one
offering
He
has
perfected
forever
those
who
are
being
sanctified.” Hebrews 10:12-14
“For
the
grace
of
God
that
brings
salvation
has
appeared
to
all
men,
teaching
us
that,
denying
ungodliness
and
worldly
lusts,
we
should
live
soberly,
righteously,
and
godly
in
the
present
age,
looking
for
the
blessed
hope
and
glorious
appearing
of
our
great
God
and
Savior
Jesus
Christ,
who
gave
Himself
for
us,
that
He
might
redeem
us
from
every
lawless
deed
and
purify
for
Himself
His
own
special people, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:11-14
“Remind
them
to
be
subject
to
rulers
and
authorities,
to
obey,
to
be
ready
for
every
good
work,
to
speak
evil
of
no
one,
to
be
peaceable,
gentle,
showing
all
humility
to
all
men.
For
we
ourselves
were
also
once
foolish,
disobedient,
deceived,
serving
various
lusts
and
pleasures,
living
in
malice
and
envy,
hateful
and
hating
one
another.
But
when
the
kindness
and
the
love
of
God
our
Savior
toward
man
appeared,
not
by
works
of
righteousness
which
we
have
done,
but
according
to
His
mercy
He
saved
us,
through
the
washing
of
regeneration
and
renewing
of
the
Holy
Spirit,
whom
He
poured
out
on
us
abundantly
through
Jesus
Christ
our
Savior,
that
having
been
justified
by
His
grace
we
should
become
heirs
according to
the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:1-7
“Blessed
are
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6
“If
we
confess
our
sins,
He
is
faithful
and
just
to
forgive
us
our
sins
and
to
cleanse
us
from
all
unrighteousness.”
1
John 1:9
Can
you
identify
at
least
one
area
of
righteousness
that
you
hunger
and
thirst
after?
If
yes,
which
of
the
following
is relevant and prudent:
•
Take responsibility for the unrighteousness.
•
Make a list of the:
o
Lies that are associated with the unrighteousness.
o
Triggers that initiate unrighteousness.
o
Different
means,
thoughts,
or
perceptions
that
are
used to justify the unrighteousness.
o
Consequences
of
the
unrighteousness,
such
as
guilt,
pain,
shame,
internal
turmoil,
and
fear;
harm
to
those we love; and separation from God.
•
Recognize it is God’s love for us that He desires us to:
o
No
longer
be
bound
in
slavery
and
held
in
darkness
because of the unrighteousness.
o
Experience the peace and joy of His righteousness.
•
Exercise your faith in Jesus Christ by:
o
Asking for forgiveness.
o
Requesting spiritual strength to overcome.
o
Obeying the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
•
Read and internalize God’s word.
•
Seek the assistance of a trusted accountability partner.
•
Make
a
decision
to
actively
avoid
all
“triggers”
that
initiate unrighteousness.
•
Forgive
those
who
have
harmed
you—as
you
have
been forgiven—for your spiritual benefit.
All for His glory, for He alone is worthy!
Harold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor.
The
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed
after
reading
“Blessed
are
those
who
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness.”
The
following
questions
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
the
determination
of
personal
opinions
and/or
discovering
how
the
lesson
content
illuminates
our
lives.
As such, no answers are provided.
Questions
An
analogy
may
be
defined
as
a
means
to
explain
an
unfamiliar topic by comparing it to a familiar topic.
•
How
is
a
physical
hunger
and
thirst
for
food
and
drink
similar
to
a
spiritual
hunger
and
thirst
for
righteousness?
•
What
happens
to
our
body,
our
thoughts,
and
our
motivations
as
we
become
increasingly
hungry
and
thirsty?
•
What
would
cause
someone
to
develop
a
hunger
and
thirst for righteousness?
•
What
would
cause
someone
to
not
develop
a
hunger
and thirst for righteousness?
•
What are the benefits (rewards) of His righteousness?
Isaiah
64:6
states,
“We
are
all
like
an
unclean
thing,
and
all our righteousness are like filthy rags.”
•
What is meant by “
We are all like an unclean thing?”
•
Why is our righteousness
“like filthy rags?”
Jesus
said,
“For
I
say
to
you,
that
unless
your
righteousness
exceeds
the
righteousness
of
the
scribes
and
Pharisees,
you
will
by
no
means
enter
the
kingdom
of
heaven.”
Matthew
5:20.
Reference
Matthew
23
to
answer
the
questions
below
regarding
the
scribes
and
Pharisees:
•
Why
did
Jesus
reference
the
righteousness
of
the
scribes and Pharisees?
•
What were they doing right?
•
What were they doing wrong and why?
•
Define
at
least
3
consequences
of
their
approach
to
righteousness.
•
Imagine
you
had
the
opportunity
to
speak
to
them.
What would you say?
Scripture
declares
faith
in
the
sacrificial
death
of
Jesus
Christ
as
an
atonement
for
our
sins
is
the
“key”
that
opens
the door to salvation and righteousness.
•
How does this differ from other religions?
•
Is
the
nature
and
wisdom
of
God
revealed
in
this
requirement? If yes, explain.
The lesson described justification and sanctification.
•
What
is
the
difference
between
justification
and
sanctification?
•
Which
one
do
you
think
primarily
supports
the
relationship between God and His faithful?
•
Which
one
do
you
think
primarily
supports
the
interaction between His faithful and the unrighteous?
•
Do
you
think
justification
and
sanctification
work
together
to
enhance
the
righteousness
of
a
Christian?
Explain.
You may download a PDF version of the
questions by clicking on this button.
Can
you
think
of
someone
who
may
benefit
from
this
lesson? If yes, PASS IT ON!
