I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

John 10:10

Whenever I think of an "abundant life" I always think of money. When the lottery jackpot gets somewhere near $20 million, I always buy a ticket. I've usually spent all the money in my head long before the winning numbers are announced. I want a new car. I want a new house. I want to be out of debt. I want to be able to quit my job and live the lazy life of the filthy rich. Ah! Abundant life!

That's not really what Jesus meant though, was it? No. That's my selfish human side defining what "abundant life" means. Life is about more than just money, life is about our journey with God. I realized long ago I would most likely never be rich. Money would take my focus off of God. If I'm concerned about making and keeping money, how would I be able to stop and live my life with God? I wouldn't, I'd be living for money.

God is careful to strip away the things in our lives that might become more important than God, whether it's money, jobs or people. God helps us bring our lives into focus. I've lost jobs, friends and money. Usually they go when they become the most important thing in my life. We cannot put anything before our devotion to God.

Once we have our priorities in order, God brings wonderful things into our lives including money, jobs and people who love us, support us and keep us going in the world. As long as we are seeking God's will for our lives first, all these things will be added to our lives. This is the abundant life of which Jesus speaks. We find the blessings, the richness and abundance of life, in our love and obedience to God.

Blessings,
Candace