The Abundant Life

Many ministers preach about abundant life, but I sometimes question what exactly do they mean. When I hear their sermons, I am lead to believe they are talking about riches and how we can acquire riches in this life here on earth. These sermons and preachers are often referred to as "prosperity preachers," and I find their sermons to be deceptive.

Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) When Jesus talks about abundant life, is he talking about material riches or earthly fame? I doubt that he is referring to either.

Jesus is our Shepherd and the shepherd functions as a gate, letting the sheep in and protecting them. Jesus is the gate to God's salvation for us. He offers access to safety and security. Jesus gives life. The life he gives right now is abundantly richer and fuller.

The Son of God came to this world, not to give it prosperity, but to give it salvation.

Thankfully, for Christians, our Saviour's abundance is both spiritual and eternal; it never falters, even if we do, and it never dies. As Chrisitians, we need only to open our hearts to Him, and His grace becomes ours. Grace is something we don't deserve but God in his mercy towards us, offers His grace, which is overflowing.

The definition of "abundance" means an extremely plentiful or oversufficient quantity or supply; however, another meaning for abundance is "affluence; wealth." I suppose when some are preaching about abundance, they prefer to use "affluence or wealth" because this definition of abundance appeals to our earthly flesh. We fail to understand that Jesus is referring to our spiritual needs, not our earthly desires.

God's gifts are available to all, but they are not guaranteed; those gifts must be claimed by those who choose to follow Christ. As believers, we are free to accept God's gifts, or not; that choice, and the consequences that result from it, are ours and ours alone.

As we go about our daily lives, may be accept God's promise of spiritual abundance, and may we share it with a world in desperate need of the Master's healing touch. The word of God tells us that it good for us to draw near to God and put our trust in the Lord God. (Psalm 73:28).

Thought for Today: God's promises are spiritual blessings, not earthly treasures.



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