Why “Having It All” Isn’t the Same as “Living Abundantly”
In our modern world, we are bombarded with images of the “good life”—luxury cars, high-tech gadgets, and overflowing bank accounts. We are told that abundance is measured by what we can collect. But Jesus presents a radical, counter-cultural definition of wealth that turns our worldly logic upside down.
The Great Misunderstanding
In John 10:10, Jesus promises us an “abundant life.” For years, this verse has been hijacked to suggest that following Christ is a path to worldly riches. However, if we look at Luke 12:15, Jesus draws a hard line in the sand: “Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”
If life isn’t found in our things, where is it found?
Knowing You Are Living the Abundant Life
How do you know if you are experiencing this superabundant life? It isn’t found in your garage; it’s found in your inner landscape. You are living the abundant life when:
- Your Peace is Independent: You can face a storm, a health challenge, or a technical glitch in your studio, and yet possess a “peace that passes understanding.”
- Your Joy is Relational: You find more satisfaction in your relationship with God and your family than in a new purchase.
- Your Hands are Open: You view your resources as tools for service rather than trophies of success.
Breaking the Chase
The “abundant life” acts as a shield against the “chase.” When we are spiritually hungry, we scavenge for satisfaction in material goods. But when we feast at the Lord’s table, the “things” of this world lose their luster. We no longer “chase” because we have already “found.”
Application for Today
To live abundantly today, we must practice Holy Contentment. This doesn’t mean we don’t work hard or enjoy nice things; it means those things no longer have power over us.
- Audit Your “Barns”: Look at your life. Are you building “bigger barns” (accumulating just to have more), or are you becoming “rich toward God”?
- Seek the Shepherd: If you feel “empty” today, don’t go to the store or the screen. Go to the Shepherd. Spend ten minutes in John 10, reminding yourself that He is your gate, your protector, and your provider.
The Bottom Line: You can have a house full of possessions and be spiritually bankrupt, or you can have very little and be the wealthiest person in the room. The abundant life is the life of Christ flowing through you. Choose the “Good Shepherd” today, and let the “chase” for things finally come to an end.