The term "longedst" is an archaic form of the verb "long," which means to have a strong desire or yearning for something. In the context of the Bible, longing often refers to a deep spiritual desire or yearning for God, His presence, or His righteousness. This concept is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the human soul's innate desire for communion with the Divine.

Biblical Usage and Context

The idea of longing is woven throughout the biblical narrative, illustrating the deep-seated desire of God's people for a closer relationship with Him. This longing is not merely a fleeting wish but a profound and persistent yearning that shapes the believer's life and actions.

1. Longing for God and His Presence: The Psalms frequently express a deep longing for God. In Psalm 42:1-2 , the psalmist writes, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?" This vivid imagery captures the intensity of the psalmist's desire for God's presence, likening it to a deer's desperate need for water.

2. Longing for Righteousness: In the Beatitudes, Jesus speaks of those who "hunger and thirst for righteousness" (Matthew 5:6), promising that they will be filled. This longing for righteousness reflects a desire to live in accordance with God's will and to see His justice prevail in the world.

3. Longing for Redemption and Salvation: The prophets often express a longing for God's deliverance and the coming of His kingdom. In Isaiah 26:8-9 , the prophet declares, "Yes, in the path of Your judgments, O LORD, we wait for You; Your name and renown are the desire of our souls. My soul longs for You in the night; indeed, my spirit within me seeks You diligently." This passage highlights the anticipation and hope for God's redemptive work.

4. Longing for Christ's Return: The New Testament also speaks of the believer's longing for the return of Christ. In 2 Timothy 4:8 , Paul writes about the "crown of righteousness" that awaits "all who have longed for His appearing." This longing is a central aspect of Christian hope, looking forward to the fulfillment of God's promises.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the concept of longing underscores the relationship between humanity and God. It reflects the understanding that humans are created for fellowship with God, and there is an inherent restlessness until that relationship is fully realized. This longing is both a gift and a call, drawing believers closer to God and motivating them to seek His will and presence in their lives.

Practical Application

For believers, the biblical theme of longing serves as a reminder to cultivate a deep desire for God and His ways. It encourages a life of prayer, worship, and obedience, as these are the means by which one can draw nearer to God. Additionally, it challenges Christians to live with an eternal perspective, always yearning for the fulfillment of God's kingdom and the return of Christ.

In summary, "longedst" captures the essence of a profound spiritual yearning that is central to the biblical narrative and the Christian experience. This longing is a testament to the soul's desire for God and His righteousness, shaping the believer's journey of faith.

On the Source and Cause of True Joy, --The Example of the Joyous ...
... derived. That mendicant rejoiced in drunkenness; thou longedst to rejoice
in glory." What glory, O Lord? That which is not in Thee. ...
/.../augustine/the confessions and letters of st/chapter vi on the source and.htm

Longedst (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Longedst (1 Occurrence). Genesis 31:30 And now, though
thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst...
/l/longedst.htm - 6k

Longed (24 Occurrences)

/l/longed.htm - 13k

Longest (1 Occurrence)
... Genesis 31:30 And now, though thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst
after thy father's house, yet wherefore hast thou stolen my gods? ...
/l/longest.htm - 6k

Wouldest (66 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:30 And now, though thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst
after thy father's house, yet wherefore hast thou stolen my gods? ...
/w/wouldest.htm - 26k

Sore (156 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:30 And now, though thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst
after thy father's house, yet wherefore hast thou stolen my gods? ...
/s/sore.htm - 40k

Needs (85 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:30 And now, though thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst
after thy father's house, yet wherefore hast thou stolen my gods? ...
/n/needs.htm - 30k

Longer (373 Occurrences)

/l/longer.htm - 36k

Surely (587 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:30 And now, though thou wouldest needs be gone, because thou sore longedst
after thy father's house, yet wherefore hast thou stolen my gods? ...
/s/surely.htm - 39k

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