Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "crave" often refers to a deep, intense desire or longing for something. This longing can be both physical and spiritual, and the Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the nature of human cravings and their implications.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, cravings are frequently associated with the desires of the flesh and the consequences of succumbing to them. One notable example is found in the account of the Israelites in the wilderness. In Numbers 11:4-6 , the Israelites express their craving for the foods they had in Egypt, lamenting their current diet of manna: "Meanwhile, the rabble among them had a strong craving for other food, and again the Israelites wept and said, 'Who will feed us meat? We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic. But now our appetite is gone; there is nothing to see but this manna!'" This passage highlights how cravings can lead to discontent and a lack of gratitude for God's provision. The Israelites' longing for the foods of Egypt symbolizes a deeper spiritual issue—a desire to return to their former way of life, despite the bondage it represented. Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the concept of craving. Proverbs 21:25-26 states, "The craving of the sluggard will kill him because his hands refuse to work. All day long he craves more, but the righteous give without restraint." Here, craving is contrasted with righteousness and generosity. The passage suggests that unchecked desires can lead to destruction, while a righteous life is marked by selflessness and contentment. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, cravings are often linked to the sinful nature and the need for spiritual transformation. The Apostle Paul addresses this in his letters, emphasizing the importance of living by the Spirit rather than succumbing to the desires of the flesh. In Galatians 5:16-17 , Paul writes, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want." This passage underscores the internal conflict between the flesh and the Spirit, highlighting the need for believers to seek spiritual fulfillment rather than giving in to worldly cravings. Spiritual Cravings While the Bible warns against fleshly cravings, it also acknowledges the legitimacy of spiritual cravings. In Matthew 5:6 , Jesus declares, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." This beatitude encourages believers to cultivate a deep longing for righteousness and a relationship with God, promising that such spiritual cravings will be satisfied. Practical Implications The biblical perspective on cravings calls for discernment and self-control. Believers are encouraged to examine their desires, distinguishing between those that lead to spiritual growth and those that draw them away from God. By aligning their cravings with God's will, Christians can experience true fulfillment and avoid the pitfalls of worldly desires. In summary, the Bible presents cravings as a powerful force that can either lead to spiritual growth or destruction, depending on how they are directed. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a focus on righteousness, believers are called to transform their cravings into a pursuit of God's kingdom and His righteousness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To ask with earnestness or importunity; to ask with submission or humility; to beg; to entreat; to beseech; to implore.2. (v. t.) To call for, as a gratification; to long for; hence, to require or demand; as, the stomach craves food. 3. (v. i.) To desire strongly; to feel an insatiable longing; as, a craving appetite. Greek 1938. epithumetes -- one who desires ... 1938 ("crave") describes passion that builds on (Gk , "upon") what is to the will of God (used only in 1 Cor 10:6). See 1937 (). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1938.htm - 6k 154. aiteo -- to ask, request 1510. eimi -- I exist, I am 1934. epizeteo -- to inquire for 1567. ekzeteo -- to seek out, demand, inquire 3983. peinao -- to hunger, be hungry 1971. epipotheo -- to long for Strong's Hebrew 404. akaph -- to press, urge... root Definition to press, urge NASB Word Usage urges (1). crave. A primitive root; apparently meaning to curve (as with a burden); to urge -- crave. 403, 404 ... /hebrew/404.htm - 5k 183. avah -- to incline, desire Library The Evidence of Our Lord's Wounds Contentment 'In this Mountain' "He Hardened his Heart" Acts xvii. 1, 2, 3 Useful Hints. Evidences of Regeneration. The Judgment Upon Zacharias Revel. 3. 19. Be Zealous. Indiscreet Importunity. Thesaurus Crave (9 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Crave (9 Occurrences). ... Philippians 4:17 Not that I crave for gifts from you, but I do want to see abundant fruit bring you honour. ... /c/crave.htm - 9k Lust (42 Occurrences) Want (607 Occurrences) Enjoys (5 Occurrences) Delicacies (7 Occurrences) Craunch (1 Occurrence) Craved (6 Occurrences) Stingy (2 Occurrences) Abundant (124 Occurrences) Job (60 Occurrences) Resources What is the new birth? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that “as a man thinks, so is he” in Proverbs 23:7? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about popularity / wanting to be popular? | GotQuestions.org Crave: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Crave (9 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 10:6 Philippians 4:17 1 Peter 2:2 Numbers 11:4 Deuteronomy 12:20 Proverbs 13:2 Proverbs 23:6 Proverbs 31:4 Micah 7:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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