“Choosing the Abundant Life”
By Rev. Everett R. Kimble, Sr.
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I come that they might have life, and that they might have it mor abundantly.” — John 10:10 (KJV)
God has a plan of love and power for your life, Satan’s plan is for death and destruction. God’s plan is rooted in obedience, while the plan of Satan is rooted in indulgence. The struggle for us is understanding and recognizing which plan we are going to follow.
The plan of God emanates from deep within our souls and it empowers and propels us forward despite the conditions of the world around us. When we are sick, we take comfort in knowing our God is a healer. When financial hardship comes our way, we are confident because we know God will provide. When relationships and communication burst into chaos, we look to Him because we understand that He is a fixer. Wherever we are, and whatever we are going through, we are encouraged because the Spirit of the Lord lives in us. This is “the abundant life.”
On the other hand, Satan is busy trying to lure us in by feeding our selfish desires. A new car, a big house, the big payday, fame, recognition and a seat at the head table are all tools of Satan’s. While having some or all these things is not an indication the devil has pulled you away from God, the wrong attitude towards them is. But, what can we do to ensure we are chasing after an abundant life in Jesus and not being drawn in by Satan.
First, make sure you know Jesus and you are working, daily on your relationship with Him. Paul says that everything that he does is so that he may know Jesus, the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His suffering.
Next, trust Jesus. Proverbs reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not to our own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all our ways and He will direct our path.
Finally, just love Him. Jesus says if you love Him you will keep His commandments.
Bottom line, if you spend time getting to know Him it will be easy to trust Him. When you trust and love Jesus, obeying Him becomes natural and there, in fellowship with our Lord and Savior is where you will have an abundant life.
The devil will try and steal your joy today, don’t let him. Have an abundantly-amazing Friday!
