When we think of having an abundant life, we often link it to the Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of abundance as “having ample quantity; being plentiful”. We associate it with having luxurious homes, expensive cars, extravagant vacations, and wealth. The Greek word, perisson, gives us a deeper meaning for abundance. Its definition is “exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more superfluous, a quantity so abundant as to be considerably more than what one would expect or anticipate.” 

This is what God promises us, more than we could ever expect or anticipate. While God’s blessings provide us with physical and material provisions, the Bible emphasizes his promise of spiritual abundance. This is far more valuable than worldly possessions. It encompasses salvation, grace and eternal life.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 1:3 all blessings come through Jesus Christ, suggesting the completeness and sufficiency of God’s blessings to believers. It emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus. God’s grace has been poured out abundantly on those who are in Christ. With this knowledge we are to cultivate a lifestyle of praise and gratitude towards God for his abundant blessings.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3, (NIV).

Abundant life is eternal life. A life that begins when we come to Christ and receive him as Savior. In John 10:10 (ESV), Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly .” The life Jesus offers encompasses spiritual richness, peace, and eternal joy. It includes redemption, forgiveness, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. These blessings are a foretaste of the eternal inheritance promised to believers. God’s promise of an abundant life should inspire us to invest in what truly matters and to share these riches with others.

Pray

Holy Father,

Blessed are you, O God, creator of the universe and the source of all blessings. I praise your name and give thanks for all that you are and all that you do. I am filled with gratitude for what you provide for me. Your promise of abundant life, through Christ Jesus, fills my heart with peace and my soul with joy. Lord, may I never take your blessings for granted. I pray your Spirit shines through me as a lighthouse for others to see Christ, so they too may have an abundant life for all eternity. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.