Fasting, pt. 3

Here's what Jesus said about fasting:

"And blessed are all they that do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the holy ghost." (Matthew 3:9)

Why is that important and what does that foreshadow?  

We learn in the last days Zion that the devil will have no power over the hearts of the people because of their righteousness:

"And because of the righteousness of his people, Satan has no power. Wherefore, he cannot be loosed for the space of many years, for he hath no power over the hearts of the people, for they dwell in righteousness, and the Holy One of Israel reigneth." (1 Nephi 7:5)

What's the connection between learning to be righteous now and actually being righteous then? Or said differently, what's the connection between being hungry and thirsty now and being filled then?

"They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore, neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters, and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." (Revelation 2:16)

Is this verse in Revelation about our literal, physical appetites or about righteousness? Notice the reigning Lord is the one feeding the people. We become righteous when we allow the Lord to reign in our hearts and are subject to his ways. 

"Conformity to the Divine Law. God measures differently than does man. Being “righteous before God” may not mean the same thing one thinks “righteousness” means. Man wants outward signs, symbols, dress, grooming, and conformity. God looks at the intent of the heart. Righteousness comes by obedience. Obedience requires action. Without conforming conduct to the Lord’s commandments, it is impossible to enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Righteouness, Glossary)


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