Scripture

Our verse for today comes from 2 Samuel 23:15, ” And David said with longing, ‘Oh, that someone would give me a drink of the water from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate.’ ” 

Background

I heard someone say something yesterday that I know I have never heard said before. A coworker was telling me what she brought for lunch because she had forgotten that we were having a cookout at work, and she really had not needed to bring anything to eat. But she had cooked dinner the night before and was so excited about her leftovers that it completely slipped her mind that lunch was being provided for us this day. Now, I was somewhat surprised when I heard that the meal that had her so pumped up was liver and onions with rice; liver is usually a leading vote-getter when it comes to least favorite foods. But then she said four words that perhaps had never before been spoken by another human: I was craving liver. Wow. Believe it or not, I can eat liver. We had to eat it growing up, and it wasn’t the absolute worst thing I had, not as bad as boiled Brussels sprouts or pickled beets. But though I could eat it if I had to, I have not sought liver out since I was free to choose my own meals. And ironically, when speaking with my dad later in the day, he told me about his amazing meal the night before, too, and you’d never guess what was the main course – yep, liver. 

Application

Are you a person who craves things? I think we all are, but we just differ in what we crave. For some, it’s certain foods. For others, it’s the effects of what they eat or drink. Some might crave attention or recognition, or perhaps something less obvious but equally as enticing. Wherever there is a craving, it’s probably not a bad idea to examine where it comes from and how you generally handle it. Much can be gained by understanding how we respond to what seems to grip us so tightly. But we also might do well to consider where we do not have a craving, especially concerning the things of God. What you’re not interested in could say as much about your heart as the things you spend time doing. And we all know that the heart is far more desirable than liver. 

Charge

As we seek Him today, try to gain a different perspective on your cravings. Admit to what you are choosing, and not choosing, and ask God to help you make any changes.