Abundant: having plenty of something.

America is a land of abundance. We have plenty of water, plenty of food, and plenty of clothing. Our wealth is, in many ways, gluttonous. We have more than we need, but it is never enough. Instead we might wonder, why does the Lord give so much, to so few?

Often we forget that we are among the wealthiest people on this planet.  But when I get a letter from one of our Compassion International boys, I am reminded. This summer Rajendra wrote, “How are you? Summer is continuing here in India. Farmers hope for rain. River, pond, and the hand-pump becomes dry. I am praying for you. Please pray for me.” Even the hand pump was dry, y’all.

But a life of abundance is not simply about water, food or clothing.  It seems to me that abundance is living a life where grace—peace with God, purchased by Christ— is pressed down, shaken together and running over.

The spiritual treasure we have is most valuable, most precious. “God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus” (Eph 2:7, VOICE).

Abundance is a high calling. 

God has blessed us, not because we are so lovely or deserving. But He has done it to demonstrate His faithfulness: He is making good on His promise to bless all the world through Abraham’s children (Deut 7:7-9, ESV). We have been blessed so that we might be a blessing to others (Gen 12:2).

Abundant: having plenty of something.

So this month, as we examine what it means to live a #MoreAbundantLife, we will be focusing on the responsibilities that come to us through our relationship with Jesus.  Living abundantly is about stewarding the grace well.

Abundance looks like this:

• October 4-10 Making Peace
• October 11-17 Growing in Love
• October 18-24 Being a Temple
• October 25-31 Living in Worship

And God is able to bless you abundantly,
so that in all things at all times,
having all that you need,
you will abound in every good work.
2 Cor. 9:8, NIV

Is it hard for you to perceive your own abundance? Do you see the grace, or the gaps, in your life? Do you feel the warmth and kindness of God, or are you feeling left out in the cold? Can you taste and see that the Lord is good, or does bitterness overwhelm the sweetness?

And if your heart is aware of God’s grace and kindness, can you take the next step of sharing the abundance?