The Craving that Only God can Satisfy

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV)

For many people, the word ‘craving’ is closely associated with pregnant women. The sudden mood swings and inexplicable demands for different delicacies can cause stress and frustration to caregivers.

What is even more exasperating is how fast some expectant women shift from craving one thing to demanding for a very different item altogether. Indeed, the expectant woman has no control over her yearnings.

Why we Yearn for More

This deep longing for something different and better appears to be genetically transmitted to children. The average human beings desires for good and bad things including food, beverages, alcohol, hard drugs, love and affection, among others.

Unfortunately, even after getting what one yearns for, the craving grows deeper. This explains addictions. An alcoholic begins with a few drinks but later develops an obsession for alcohol. The more he drinks, the more he wants.

Why are cravings and addictions insatiable? King Solomon gives a clue when he says, “Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

The Craving that Only God can Satisfy

Apparently, we have an inbuilt craving for a higher and more fulfilling experience, that of knowing God. What we long for it not material possessions or the elation of intoxication. It is a genuine and profound union with God. We cannot cure divine longing using secular or materials methods.

As we begin to know God, our desire is for deeper understanding of His will. We cannot exhaust what there is to know about God. What we experience is a thirst for righteous. This craving is what we call spiritual growth.

As Augustine of Hippo once said, “Our hearts are restless until we they rest in You (God).” Only by having a personal relationship with God can we ward off carnal longings that drive us away from the Fountain of Life that is God.

Prayer
Loving Father, come and live in me that You may meet my craving for Your presence.