Heart Hunger

TO READ: Isaiah 55:1-13

Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food.

Isaiah 55:2

Isaiah echoes an invitation repeated often by God’s messengers throughout the Bible. The nation of Israel had been wandering from the Lord. But God, in his mercy, called the people back to him. God continues to call us, offering “soul food” —food that nourishes us spiritually. But notice the words in these verses: come, listen, seek, and call on him. God will not force-feed us, but he gladly provides what we need when we come to him.

Jesus said, “God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied” (Luke 6:21). A true disciple of Jesus Christ experiences a gnawing hunger to know him better and a spiritual thirst that can only be quenched by staying close to him. Those who never need him will never truly know him. But those who humbly come, hungry to know him better, will be satisfied.

In the last invitation to humankind in the Scriptures, the same invitation is given. “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’ Let each one who hears this say, ‘Come.’ Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life” (Revelation 22:17). The invitation is offered to everyone —it is open to all.

If you do not yet know the Lord, but you are hungry and thirsty, you have come to the right place —his Word. Where is your hunger fed and your thirst assuaged? At Jesus’ feet! Come, eat and drink.