The Abundant Life

When we look on social media, watch "reality TV shows" or get to see a friend's latest vacation pix, some or all of us may tend to think - WOW! They have got it made! I am fairly transparent and so I can tell you with all honesty, I am guilty! This morning I spent some time with the LORD and a part of Scripture called my attention:

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10 NIV.

What I began to focus on was the latter part of this Scripture, "have life...to the full". Jesus was talking to His followers about why He was here on Earth, it wasn't to build Himself an Earthly Kingdom but an Eternal one with you and I as part of it. The enemy seeks to get our attention to the physical, to the culture around us. Focusing on what someone else has and seeing how "happy" they are, so this must mean that is what I need to be happy. But what happens when we buy that shirt, get the house, or the car? We want more, Jesus has never left me wanting more.

Dozens of cookies for the hospital staff, who cared for my husband when he was ill - Joy and Appreciation for them.

Some may use this verse and take it completely out of context, there is nothing on this Earth that will give us complete joy, peace, and love - NOTHING. Not riches, not things like jewelry, homes, furnishings. Not even our families, I know - doesnt seem right, right? Jesus gave His life as the ultimate sacrifice so there was no more need to have a proxy, as the Jews had done for centuries by sacrificing the best of the best of their animals. The gap between humanity and God was given a bridge by the sacrifice of Christ and it is because of the sacrifice we can have a full life. This full life means we are not separated by God because of sin, we can accept Christ's sacrifice and meet with the Father face to face, being assured of an abundant life. We are not completely off the hook though, there are always natural consequences for the things we did/do when it comes to the natural.

The abundant life means we can receive wisdom, knowledge, freedom from strongholds/addictions/disease but most of all an abundance of Christ because He has infused us with His Holy Spirit. We have the ability to think, act and love like Him. Jesus' life was abundant because He depended on the Father and through the act of service He did for those around Him, His friends and followers - even those who didnt follow. Jesus did not come for the riches, fame or kingdoms this world offered, No - Jesus came for people, His people. So it is not about how much we accumulate but the "who's" we accumulate. Who are you serving? Who are you discipling? Who are you loving for Christ? Because in the end when I die, I will be taking nothing with me but the legacy of how I lived, loved and served.

Serving local law enforcement and community during Christmas 2019

My abundant life is not what is in the bank, what I have in my home or even my home itself. I feel the abundance of life when I can minister to someone who is hurting or be the listening ear to a broken heart. My abundant life comes when I can share what the LORD has done and continues to do for me and my family. To speak of the impossible victories and to share in the struggles of those who need encouragement. Is my life perfect? So. Far. From. But I do I have joy, contentment, and peace that are with me always as well as a loving God, who can give me what I lack. My life is full and it is only since accepting Christ that I can truly say that, how about you? Do you think about abundance as what you have or what you can give?

With an attitude of gratitude ~

A Warrior