HUNGERING AND THIRSTING

On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight…. Then he went upstairs again and broke bread and ate. After talking until daylight, he left. —Acts 20:7, 11

Awhile back I read “Heavenly Man” which is about the underground church in China. The author told of westerners coming over to China to help, but when the westerners spoke it was for only an hour or less. It was greatly appreciated that these people would come to China to help the church, but they were eventually asked not to come unless they could speak for at least 2 ½ hours minimum.

When was the last time you and I listened for 2 ½ hours as the Word of God was taught? Or, when was the last time we taught God’s Word for at least 2 ½ hours? This is common not only in China, but in many place outside the United States. In the passage above Paul may have spoken through the night for up to 10 hours or more. Some people I have heard say they cannot even sit for more than an hour for worship on a Sunday morning yet they can sit for hours watching T.V. or a sports event or a concert or something else they enjoy and are interested in. What does this say about our priorities? Do we only hear or teach the Word of God during worship on Sundays or are we connected during the week with others to hear, study and/or teach God’s Word?

So do we just sing the song “As the deer pants for the water so my soul longs after you” or do our souls really thirst after the Lord God Almighty and His ways? What is it that is more precious to me? Where are my priorities? Is wealth more important to me than the Word of God? (Psalm 119:72). Do I work more than I need to just to have a more affluent lifestyle or do I seek to listen, apply and share the Word of God? Oh, may my priorities and your priorities be right?

Dear Father, may I hunger and thirst after You and Your ways. Thank You that You have given us Your Son, Your Spirit and Your Word. Now, may I be faithful for what You have called me into Your Son’s kingdom for. May it be so.