THE PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL HUNGER

Title: THE PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL HUNGER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 5:6
Supporting Texts: Psalm 42:1-2, Isaiah 55:1-2, John 7:37-38, Philippians 3:10

INTRODUCTION:
Spiritual hunger is a deep longing for more of God and His presence. Just as physical hunger indicates the body’s need for sustenance, spiritual hunger shows a yearning for the divine. It is essential for growth, intimacy with God, and the fulfilment of our divine purpose. In this sermon, we will explore the purpose of spiritual hunger, its signs, and how to cultivate it.

1. WHAT IS SPIRITUAL HUNGER?

a) A Craving for God’s Presence
Spiritual hunger is the soul's desire to be closer to God (Psalm 42:1-2).

b) A Desire for Righteousness
It is a longing to live a life pleasing to God (Matthew 5:6).

c) An Urge to Know God More
It goes beyond surface-level faith to a deeper knowledge of God (Philippians 3:10).

d) A Passion for God’s Word and His Kingdom
Spiritual hunger drives us to pursue God’s will and purpose (Matthew 6:33).

e) Biblical Example: Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 33:18). Despite his encounters with God, Moses sought more of His glory.

2. PURPOSES OF SPIRITUAL HUNGER

a) To Draw Us Closer to God
Spiritual hunger deepens intimacy with God (James 4:8).

b) To Transform Our Lives
Hunger for God leads to spiritual growth and maturity (2 Corinthians 3:18).

c) To Fulfil Our Divine Assignment
It equips us for service and Kingdom impact (Acts 13:2).

d) To Receive Divine Revelation
Spiritual hunger positions us to hear from God (Jeremiah 33:3).

e) Biblical Example: The disciples in the upper room (Acts 2:1-4). Their spiritual hunger brought the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

3. SIGNS OF SPIRITUAL HUNGER

a) An Unquenchable Desire for Prayer
A spiritually hungry person finds joy in constant communion with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

b) A Love for God’s Word
They meditate on and delight in God’s Word (Psalm 119:103).

c) A Passion for Worship
Worship becomes a lifestyle, not a routine (John 4:23-24).

d) A Burden for Souls
Spiritual hunger compels believers to share the gospel (Matthew 28:19).

e) Biblical Example: Anna the prophetess (Luke 2:36-38). Her hunger kept her in prayer and fasting until she saw the Messiah.

4. HOW TO CULTIVATE SPIRITUAL HUNGER

a) Develop a Habit of Prayer
Consistent prayer draws us closer to God (Matthew 6:6).

b) Feed on God’s Word Daily
The Word is spiritual food that sustains hunger (Joshua 1:8).

c) Stay in Fellowship with Other Believers
Fellowship ignites passion for God (Hebrews 10:25).

d) Avoid Spiritual Complacency
Refuse to settle for less when it comes to your walk with God (Revelation 3:16).

e) Biblical Example: David (Psalm 63:1). His hunger for God kept him seeking God in every season.

5. THE BLESSINGS OF SPIRITUAL HUNGER

a) Fulfilment of Divine Promises
God satisfies those who hunger for Him (Isaiah 55:1-2).

b) Fresh Encounters with God
Spiritual hunger opens doors to divine visitations (John 7:37-38).

c) Empowerment for Service
Hunger equips believers with power for Kingdom exploits (Acts 1:8).

d) Transformation and Renewal
Spiritual hunger leads to inner renewal and Christlikeness (Romans 12:2).

e) Biblical Example: Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:36-39). His hunger for God’s glory brought fire from heaven.

CONCLUSION:
Spiritual hunger is essential for every believer. It draws us into God’s presence, transforms our lives, and empowers us for His purpose. As we cultivate a hunger for God, we will experience His power, glory, and blessings in greater dimensions.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, increase my hunger for You and Your presence.

2. Father, give me a deep desire to know You more.

3. Lord, renew my passion for prayer and worship.

4. Father, let Your Word come alive in my heart daily.

5. Lord, stir my heart to fulfil Your purpose for my life.

6. Father, remove every spiritual complacency in me.

7. Lord, fill me with fresh fire for Kingdom exploits.

8. Father, open my eyes to the riches of Your Word.

9. Lord, satisfy my soul with Your living water.

10. Father, empower me to hunger and thirst for righteousness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Your hunger for God will take you to new heights in your spiritual journey.

2. The Lord will satisfy your longing soul and fill your spirit with His presence.

3. Every complacency and lukewarmness in your life is broken in Jesus’ name.

4. You will walk in greater dimensions of God’s power and glory.

5. Fresh revelations from the Word of God will be your portion.

6. Your prayer life will be reignited with new fire and passion.

7. You will be empowered for exploits in God’s Kingdom.

8. Divine encounters will become your daily experience.

9. The thirst in your heart will draw you closer to the rivers of living water.

10. God will use your spiritual hunger to transform lives around you.