9 Practical Steps for Living Out Our Faith in Cambodia

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In Matthew 5:6, God promises that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied. For believers, true happiness is found in living a life that honors God—one rooted in His Word, guided by His Spirit, and centered on His righteousness. It’s not about immediate gratification but eternal fulfillment.

While the world focuses on temporary pleasures, believers are called to desire the eternal ways of God, recognizing that only He can fill the deepest hunger of our souls. But how do we cultivate this hunger for righteousness, especially when life in Cambodia presents its own unique challenges and distractions?

As believers, we often hear food-related metaphors throughout the Bible that speak directly to our spiritual needs—"daily bread," "living water," and the "pure milk" of the word. These metaphors remind us of the nourishment we need, not just for our bodies but for our souls. In Matthew 5:6, Jesus speaks of a different kind of hunger, saying, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."

But what does it mean to hunger for righteousness? How do we balance the world's promises of satisfaction and happiness with the deep, spiritual fulfillment that comes from God? Here, we'll explore how these biblical food metaphors teach us to rely on God daily and how, as a family and as a ministry here in Cambodia, we can practically live out this spiritual hunger.

Desiring God's Ways: 9 Practical Steps for Living Out Our Faith in Cambodia

  1. Start with Daily Prayer and Scripture
    Just as our bodies need food daily, our souls need daily sustenance from God’s Word. Begin each day with prayer and time in the Bible, seeking God’s wisdom and strength. In Cambodia, where life can be busy with ministry, family, and work, setting aside this time is essential for spiritual growth.

  2. Practice Gratitude for God's Provision
    Cambodia’s landscape is a daily reminder of God's provision—whether it's the lush green fields, the abundant fruits, or the rice that sustains families. Reflect on the ways God provides for you, both physically and spiritually, and express gratitude for His faithfulness in every situation. 

  3. Seek God's Will in Every Decision
    From small decisions like what to cook for dinner (David loves Khmer Sour Chicken Soup! 👈 recipe here) to larger ministry decisions, practice seeking God’s will. A righteous life is one that desires to align with God’s purposes. Ask, "What would honor God in this situation?" 

  4. Serve Others with Humility
    In Cambodia, we have the blessing of serving at our local church and engaging with many young people. We can hunger for righteousness by humbling ourselves to serve others, whether it’s leading Bible studies, helping with church potlucks (like Vandy’s delicious adobo), or simply being present for those in need. 


  5. Build a Christ-Centered Home
    As a family, we desire to live in a way that reflects God's righteousness. Whether it's praying together, having family devotionals, or talking about Jesus over meals, we strive to make our home a place where Christ’s love is central. This is essential not just for our spiritual growth but also for setting an example for David and the young people we disciple. 

    Weekly Khmer Bible Study at Home

  6. Engage with Non-Believers with Love and Compassion
    Living in Cambodia, where many around us follow different faiths, we often encounter people who don’t yet know Jesus. Hunger for righteousness means having a deep desire to see others come to know Christ. This involves showing love, building genuine relationships, and sharing the gospel in ways that are relatable and sensitive to their backgrounds. 

  7. Be Stewards of the Resources God Provides
    Whether it’s the fresh produce from our yard that reminds me of home (like the tinola we enjoy), or the financial resources God blesses us with, we are called to be good stewards. Righteousness is reflected in how we use what God has given us—not for our own gain but to bless others and advance His kingdom. 

    Produced from Kampong Cham (sent by in-laws) to be shared at church

  8. Participate Actively in the Body of Christ
    Church life in Cambodia, like anywhere else, requires active participation. Whether it’s through discipleship, worship, or outreach programs, being involved in the church allows us to hunger for God’s righteousness together as a community. It also encourages us to grow and serve in areas where we are needed.

  9. Foster a Spirit of Obedience
    Ultimately, hungering for righteousness is about obedience to God. This might mean stepping out of your comfort zone to take on new responsibilities in ministry or family life. Obedience often leads us down paths that aren’t always easy, but it’s in following God’s way that we find true satisfaction.

Food Metaphors in Scripture: Nourishment for the Soul

  • Daily Bread (Matthew 6:11): Just as we need food every day, we need God’s presence daily. In Cambodia, where rice is a staple in every meal, it’s a tangible reminder of our reliance on God to sustain us spiritually.

  • Living Water (John 4:14): Water is life, especially in a tropical country where clean drinking water is precious. Jesus offers living water that quenches our deepest spiritual thirst, reminding us that nothing else can satisfy like He does.

  • Pure Milk of the Word (1 Peter 2:2): Just as a child needs milk to grow, we need the Word of God to grow in our faith. In a place where people are hungry for truth and guidance, the Bible is our source of spiritual nourishment.

Call to Action: Satisfy Your Spiritual Hunger

Are you hungry for more than what the world offers? As a family living in Cambodia, we’ve experienced firsthand the difference between chasing after temporary satisfaction and living a life of righteousness. We invite you to reflect on your own hunger for God. How are you seeking His righteousness in your daily life? Are you nourishing your soul with His Word, prayer, and service to others?

Take time today to hunger and thirst for the things of God. And as Jesus promises, when we do, we will be truly satisfied.

By focusing on the food metaphors in Scripture and reflecting on the ways we can hunger for righteousness, we are reminded that true satisfaction comes not from the things of this world but from a life lived in obedience to God. Here in Cambodia, as we navigate the challenges and blessings of family life, ministry, and community, may we always hunger for His ways above all else.


Serving in Cambodia!

The Hourngs 💕💪😅🙏

Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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