Often our hungers are similarly disastrous, shaped by what Paul calls the “desires of the flesh” (Gal. 5:16–17). To satisfy such desires, we too would betray our brothers and sisters. But Jesus speaks of a form of hunger that leads not to harm but to holiness. He proclaims that among the blessed are those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (v. 6). Righteousness involves being in right relationship both with God and with our brothers and sisters. Those who truly hunger and thirst for it will go to great lengths to satisfy their desires, showing mercy to others (v. 7), making peace (v. 9), and enduring persecution (vv. 10–12).

Despite such trials, Jesus promises us that those who hunger for righteousness will find fulfillment and satisfaction. This is a craving shared by God, who also “loves righteousness and justice” (Ps. 33:5), and ultimately God’s will is to be done “on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:10). He will satisfy our hunger for His righteousness—a promise so sweet, you can almost taste it.