Bonnie Smith
Longing...

Everyone has a deep longing for God and His Words, however, our world has pushed God to the side and we aren't sure what we're longing for anymore. We have so many things to fill our minds, our time and our senses that we have an endless supply of temporary fixes. Have you ever noticed that when you get "that thing" you've always wanted or you've given into unholy desires, that you're left still longing for something or you're left even emptier than you were before. That's because nothing can truly satisfy our desires and longings but God. He created us with a longing for Himself, for purity in our hearts and for eternal life. This temporary life on earth is just our training ground to rid us of our ugliness and to lift others up to point them back on the right path that leads to the glorious after-life. (Similar to soldiers in boot-camp) So, next time you feel a "need" or "desire" pushing you to go buy something, view something online or see how many "likes" you got on social media, try talking to God first and asking Him to satisfy those needs and desires. Also, try searching online for a scripture that fits your needs and look those scriptures up a in a Bible App. Something that always helped me was praying a prayer I learned from someone a long time ago, that I pray when I'm feeling restless or needing something. It's supernatural how a peace and fulfillment washes over me when I pray that (with faith/belief) or when I read scripture. The prayer goes like this "Dear Heavenly Father, satisfy all of my longings and fill all of my hollow places with your lavish and unfailing love". When you truly begin to realize how much He really does love you, no matter what you have done, you can find satisfaction and peace in His presence. So, try that the next time you feel like you "need" something or just need to feel connected. Who better to satisfy the need for connection than your Heavenly Father. "For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things." Psalm 107:9 "But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind." Ecclesiastes 2:11 "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." Psalm 16:11 "God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis (new) week from the chaos of my life. Don’t throw me out with the trash, or fail to breathe holiness in me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you." Psalm 51:10-11 The Msg & Psalm 51:12-13 NLT