The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.
What are your biggest ambitions for life? Some people keep a bucket list, others look for ways to leave a mark in this world, and others chase financial security. We pursue things we believe will be most valuable and beneficial to us. While this may not look like outright rebellion against God’s way, we often have our own ambitions we want to pursue in our short time on earth.
Jesus spoke directly about His purpose in coming as God’s Son. It wasn’t simply to tell you what to do or even just save you. He came to save you and show you the new way of life with God. He came so that you would have life abundantly. His way of life does not feel like abundance when our focus is on the things of the world, it feels more like a sacrifice we are not sure will pay off in the end. Pursuing the ambitions of life that we see reflected in our world is easier, but only through Jesus will we find abundant life.
God is not distant: He is willing and able to lead us to the life we are searching for. He sent Jesus and gave us His Spirit so that we could experience His abundant life every day, no matter what we face. Your heavenly Father wants the best for you. The enemy wants to deceive you and waste your time. Your Creator designed you to be with Him. He knows the way to life, and He is ready to give this abundant life to those who come to Him.
- What are your dreams for your life? How have you pursued them so far? Where have you been disappointed?
- How have you seen the work of the enemy to steal, kill, and destroy in your life? How have you found abundant life in Christ?
- Pray and ask God to keep your eyes open to His path to life and for the power to resist the work of the enemy.
