Made to Crave

01Understanding Cravings: A Spiritual Perspective

You're sitting on your couch, a half-eaten bag of chips beside you, and you're still not satisfied. You're not really hungry, but you're craving something. You're not sure what it is, but you know that another handful of chips isn't going to satisfy it. This scenario might sound familiar. It's a common experience, and it's not just about food. It's about a deeper, more profound craving that resides within us all. In "Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God, Not Food," Lysa TerKeurst presents the idea that our cravings are not just physical but also spiritual. She suggests that our cravings originate from an inherent need for satisfaction and fulfillment. Think of it like a puzzle. Each craving is a piece that we're trying to fit into the bigger picture of our lives. But when we try to satisfy these cravings with food or other material things, it's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. It might fill the space temporarily, but it's not the right fit. The impact of these misplaced cravings can be significant. We find ourselves in a cycle of temporary satisfaction followed by more intense cravings. It's like a roller coaster ride that leaves us feeling empty and unfulfilled. The more we try to satisfy our cravings with material things, the more we find ourselves wanting. This cycle can lead to negative effects such as stress, anxiety, and even addiction. But what if we viewed our cravings differently? What if we saw them not as a sign of weakness or lack, but as a sign of a deeper longing for God? TerKeurst shares stories of individuals who have come to this realization. One woman, for example, found that her constant craving for sweets was not about the sugar but about a longing for sweetness in her life. When she turned to God to satisfy this craving, she found a more meaningful and lasting satisfaction. TerKeurst's book is filled with personal anecdotes and biblical references that support this perspective. She shares stories of individuals who have found true satisfaction in their relationship with God. These stories serve as a reminder that our cravings are not something to be ashamed of, but rather, they can be a pathway to a deeper connection with God. The message is clear: true satisfaction comes from a spiritual connection with God. When we seek God to satisfy our deepest desires, we find a lasting and meaningful fulfillment. It's like finding the right piece for the puzzle. It fits perfectly, and it completes the picture. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for that bag of chips, ask yourself: What am I really craving? Could it be that you're longing for something more profound, something spiritual? Consider this perspective and see how it might change your approach to your cravings and ultimately lead to a more satisfying and fulfilling life. In conclusion, understanding and addressing our cravings from a spiritual perspective can lead to a more meaningful and satisfying life. It's not about denying our cravings but about recognizing them as a sign of a deeper longing for God. So, what are you really craving?