“The [consistently] righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, But the stomach of the wicked is in need [of bread].”

Proverbs 13:25 AMP

In our previous devotion we talked about the appetite of the flesh. It is obviously clear that the flesh is at war with our new spiritual nature. An analogy can be seen in the results of healthy living and unhealthy living. To maintain good health one must exercise, eat currently, and avoid detrimental behavior like smoking, drinking heavily, or engaging in at-risk behavior. This results in a positive effect on our body. Ignoring these things results in a body that is stressed, damaged, and ultimately a premature death! So it is with our spirits. True satisfaction can only be realized when God is in the right place in our lives. The reality is that Satan is giving anything and everything to fill the gap that belongs to God. Because we were created for fellowship with Him, our spirits cry out to God to reconnect. 

The Hebrew word “satisfy” here is the word meaning to be “filled to contentment, all one wants.” It means to “be in a state of contentment and satisfaction, implying abundance such as having a full stomach being physically satisfied!” The only satisfaction of the flesh can be found in our spiritual life! The Scripture is clear that,

“Do not love the world [of sin that opposes God and His precepts], nor the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For all that is in the world–the lust and sensual craving of the flesh and the lust and longing of the eyes and the boastful pride of life [pretentious confidence in one’s resources or in the stability of earthly things]–these do not come from the Father, but are from the world.17The world is passing away, and with it its lusts [the shameful pursuits and ungodly longings]; but the one who does the will of God and carries out His purposes lives forever.”

1 John 2:15-17 AMP

Do you see it? “The world is passing away…” That is the trap of addiction! If I just do this, then I’ll be fulfilled. Once you do it, the next time you must do more! Then more, and more, and more until final you can’t escape! I love the words of Jesus,

“So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples. 32And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].”33They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been enslaved to anyone. [d]What do You mean by saying, ‘You will be set free’? 34Jesus answered, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, everyone who practices sin habitually is a slave of sin.”

John 8:31-33 AMP

So what is the truth that will set us free and satisfy our inner most being? The answer was given many years ago,

“Therefore you shall carry out My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them, so that you may live securely on the land. 19Then the land will yield its produce, so that you can eat your fill and live securely on it.:

Leviticus 25:18-19 AMP

Isn’t that what we are all looking for? Let me encourage you today to not live body, soul. And Spirit but rather Spirit, soul, and body! Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken