This week, we wanted to share an encouragement from our spiritual director, Nikki Still. In the fight against injustice, it’s easy to feel worn down by the weight of what we see and experience. But in the middle of the struggle, we’re invited into something deeper—something that not only brings transformation to others, but also to ourselves. Nikki reflects on Matthew 5:6 and reminds us that hunger for justice is not a burden, but a blessing. It’s a holy pursuit that draws us nearer to the heart of God.
All-consuming hunger
Being hungry and thirsty is not a pleasant state to be in. Think of how you feel after a day of fasting, or watch people who are starving. They have no concern for keeping up appearances or looking dignified. Hunger is an all-consuming force that overwhelms all other desires. We spend all of our lives trying to avoid being in this state, yet Jesus uses this metaphor to describe the pursuit of righteousness. Why?
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” –Matthew 5:6
As I look at this, I see two types of righteousness. There is the desire for righteousness with God that drives us to seek justification in Jesus. To the mortification of our pride and will, we say to Him: “I am a sinner, in desperate need of grace. I have no righteousness of my own, but I am so in need of it that I will forgo thinking I can do it on my own and come to you in humility and repentance.”
Yearning for justice is worthwhile
Then there is the desire to see God's will and justice in the world around us, and I want to talk about this one today. The reason I think Jesus uses this strong imagery to describe those who will receive the blessing is because He knows that the work of justice will require a deep yearning if it is to be realized. The drive from lesser emotions will easily be extinguished by the many obstacles that will challenge the pursuit. Fighting injustice is hard. The powers that hold people in bondage are strong, and the road is never ending this side of heaven.
So I want to encourage us all this morning that the sacrifice, discomfort, and heartbreak is worth it. It is worth it firstly because we will see victory; our efforts will result in change, justice, and life if we do not give up. It will be slower than we want, yes, but it will be there. In the smile of a young woman, in the joy of a life lived in freedom.
Secondly, we are promised “filling.” The greatest filling we can receive is Jesus himself. The pursuit of justice gets us on our knees; we are daily required to come to Jesus for patience, endurance, joy, breakthrough, and we are blessed above those who are never confronted with this need because in that seeking we get Him! The higher salary, the easier emotional burden, the easier work conditions—these are all things that can easily breed independence and complacency in our walk with God, but those who forgo them for a high purpose are immeasurably blessed.
So consider yourself highly favored! The difficulties you are facing are producing something so beautiful in you and around you. And your sacrifices are nothing compared to what you will come to know about this beautiful Savior who walks with you moment by moment—willing and able to supply everything you need to fulfill this high calling. It is a great, great gift to partner with God in this way. How empty our lives would be if we lived in perpetual comfort!
An invitation to pray
As we walk through this Lenten season, may we embrace the hunger Nikki described—not as something to avoid, but as a sacred invitation. Lent reminds us that sacrifice, discomfort, and longing can draw us closer to Jesus and align our hearts with His. In this season of reflection and repentance, let’s also remember to pray for righteousness and justice—for ourselves, for our teams on the front lines, and for those still trapped in exploitation.
If you're looking for ways to pray intentionally during Lent, check out this resource we put together.
And if you’d like to join us in ongoing prayer for this work, sign up for our prayer list below. Together, let’s stay hungry—for righteousness, for justice, and for more of Him.
*All data and statistics current at the date and time of publishing. Specific locations excluded for privacy and security purposes. Images are representative and do not feature actual victims.
Submit a Comment