This beatitude logically follows the previous teachings of Christ. When we read it in full and with honest hearts, it is a great assessment for us as individuals following Christ. Righteousness is described as being in right standing before God. Other definitions include the term being “upright” before God. What both a challenge and an honor. Some questions come to mind for me: when I think of being satisfied, what things come to mind first? Do those things represent the character of God? Where in my life is righteousness found? Where is it lacking?
To hunger and thirst for righteousness indicates an intense longing for the things of God. Just as food and water give life to the physical body, righteousness brings us spiritual life. Of all the areas in our lives that we seek satisfaction, I wonder what our lives would be like if we moved righteousness to the top of the list.