Jesus said: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
Unfortunately, many of us don’t lead the abundant life Christ promised because of our bad choices. Let us change that. Over the next forty days, as we pray and fast, we will choose the things that lead to life rather than death. We will choose to lead joyful lives, be at peace with ourselves and others, wait upon the Lord, persist in faith, be hopeful and humble, and thirty-four other aspects of living that will change us and change the world around us.
Today, let us choose to live an abundant life. Here are five steps to do so.
One: believe in Jesus Christ. Scripture says, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). The abundant life that Jesus promised can only be experienced by those who have put their faith in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. So, if you haven’t already, do it now.
Two: pray. Once we have committed our lives to Christ, the next step is to develop a personal relationship with him through prayer. This involves spending time with him alone. As Jesus advised: “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:6). What applies to the Father, also applies to the Son.
Three: read his word and obey his teachings. Many things that Jesus said are recorded in Scripture. Reading them will help us know him better and teach us how to live in the abundance he promises. Obedience is crucial. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).
Four: serve others. One of the best ways to experience the abundant life Jesus promised is to serve others. Look for opportunities to help those in need. Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
Five: trust God. Let us remember that God has a plan and purpose for our lives and is faithful to provide for our needs. Let us trust in his love and care for us and seek to live a life that honors and glorifies him. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame” (Romans 10:11).
Living the abundant life that Jesus promised is a journey that requires ongoing commitment and effort. But with faith, perseverance, and a willingness to follow his teachings, we can experience the fullness of life he promised.
God bless you.
