A Renewed Hunger For God’s Presence Series

A RENEWED HUNGER FOR GOD’S PRESENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 42:1-2

Supporting Texts: Matthew 5:6, Exodus 33:14-15, Isaiah 55:1-2, Psalm 63:1-2, John 7:37-38

INTRODUCTION

There is a deep longing in the human soul that nothing in this world can satisfy except the presence of God. Many believers start their Christian journey with an intense passion for God, but over time, distractions, worries, and complacency creep in, reducing their spiritual appetite.

The Psalmist, in Psalm 42:1-2, expresses this hunger, likening it to a deer that pants for water. Just as water is essential for physical survival, God's presence is necessary for spiritual vitality. A lack of hunger for God leads to spiritual dryness, weakness, and stagnation.

Revival begins with a renewed hunger for God. When believers thirst for God and seek Him earnestly, He responds by filling them with His presence. It is time to rekindle our passion, deepen our intimacy with Him, and desire His presence above all else.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF HUNGER FOR GOD

A genuine hunger for God is the foundation for a strong and thriving spiritual life. Without it, believers become spiritually weak and ineffective.

a) Hunger for God leads to deeper intimacy – When we hunger for God, we pursue Him passionately, just as Moses desired to see His glory (Exodus 33:18-19).

b) Hunger for God brings divine encounters – Those who seek Him experience fresh revelations and deeper understanding (Jeremiah 29:13).

c) Hunger for God produces spiritual transformation – The more we desire Him, the more we are changed into His image (2 Corinthians 3:18).

d) Hunger for God fuels revival – Every great revival in history started with a people desperate for God's presence (Joel 2:12-13).

e) Biblical Example: David’s Passion for God – David longed for God’s presence and constantly sought after Him (Psalm 63:1-2).

2. SIGNS OF A DECLINING SPIRITUAL HUNGER

Many believers experience seasons where their hunger for God diminishes. Recognising these signs is the first step to rekindling passion.

a) Loss of desire for prayer and the Word – When hunger for God fades, personal devotion becomes a struggle (Matthew 26:41).

b) Comfort with spiritual dryness – A believer who no longer craves God's presence is spiritually unhealthy (Revelation 3:15-16).

c) Increase in worldly distractions – When the love for material things grows, spiritual hunger decreases (1 John 2:15-16).

d) Lack of conviction over sin – A diminishing hunger for God makes sin seem normal and acceptable (Hebrews 3:12-13).

e) Biblical Example: The Church in Laodicea – They became lukewarm and self-sufficient, lacking true spiritual hunger (Revelation 3:17-18).

3. HOW TO RENEW YOUR HUNGER FOR GOD

Restoring spiritual hunger requires intentional effort and a sincere pursuit of God.

a) Return to the place of prayer – Intimacy with God is restored through consistent fellowship with Him (Matthew 6:6).

b) Immerse yourself in God’s Word – The Word of God stirs up a longing for Him and reveals His heart (Psalm 119:103).

c) Fast and separate yourself from distractions – Fasting sharpens spiritual sensitivity and increases hunger for God (Matthew 4:2-4).

d) Surround yourself with spiritually passionate people – Fellowship with those who seek God will rekindle your passion (Proverbs 27:17).

e) Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son’s Return – When he realised his need for the father, he returned with desperation (Luke 15:17-20).

4. THE BLESSINGS OF A LIFE FILLED WITH GOD’S PRESENCE

A life saturated with God’s presence is a life of power, peace, and purpose.

a) Supernatural peace and joy – God's presence brings a deep inner satisfaction (Psalm 16:11).

b) Strength and spiritual empowerment – Those who seek God are renewed in strength (Isaiah 40:31).

c) Divine guidance and direction – God leads those who hunger for Him in the right path (Isaiah 58:11).

d) Victory over sin and temptation – The presence of God keeps believers from falling into sin (Galatians 5:16).

e) Biblical Example: Peter’s Transformation – After encountering the Holy Spirit, Peter became bold and effective in ministry (Acts 4:13).

CONCLUSION

God desires that His children remain hungry for His presence. The more we seek Him, the more He fills us with His Spirit. A renewed hunger for God will restore intimacy, fuel revival, and transform lives.

Let us examine our hearts today: Are we truly seeking God above all else? Are we desperate for His presence, or have we become spiritually complacent? Now is the time to return to our first love, rekindle our passion, and press into His presence with all our hearts.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, rekindle my hunger for You and set my heart on fire again.

2. Father, remove every distraction that is keeping me from seeking Your presence.

3. Holy Spirit, fill me afresh and draw me deeper into intimacy with You.

4. Lord, restore my passion for prayer, worship, and Your Word.

5. Father, let my life be a carrier of Your presence wherever I go.