By Chap. (Capt.) Jeff Smith
Special to GUIDON

In the book entitled, “Made to Crave,” Lysa TerKeurst reminds us that inside of us all, there is a hole that needs to be filled. 

We may try to fill it with a variety of things from food, friends, to fame; but if we are honest, we will quickly acknowledge that nothing satisfies the craving.  

The reason, she says, is that we were made for God, and only he can truly fill the hole. In fact, he put it there to lead us to him.

In our searching for satisfaction and fulfillment, we are meant to find him — for only God can truly satisfy.

TerKeurst captures the heart of what the apostle Paul declares in Philippians 4:11-13 where he writes, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” In this passage, Paul is stating that he has learned how to make it through various circumstances; whether he finds himself in need or has plenty — filled or hungry.  

And what in particular has he learned? That only God satisfies. That contentment is found only in Christ. Paul is saying emphatically, I am not in need of money, food, or material possessions to satisfy me. I am satisfied with Jesus.  And what Paul testifies, you can verify — Jesus alone satisfies. He fills every craving and quenches every thirst. Yet, the question for us is not if he satisfies, but with what are we being satisfied.

Your heart does not have room for jewels and Jesus. There is not room for money and the Master; nor crowns and the Christ. For to whatever degree we allow ourselves to be satisfied with the things of this world, there is no room for Christ. The things of this world may bring joy — for a season — but Jesus satisfies for eternity. Run to Jesus, and as did Paul, find in him the fulfillment of your longing — for it is he that we were made to crave.

(Editor’s note: Smith is the 795 Military Police Battalion chaplain.)