John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.Many translations us “abundant” instead of “to the full.” Abundant means: overflowing, excess, more than sufficient…. True believers are blessed more than others. However, the key word in the passage is not abundance; it is “life.” We have the ability to make choices. It is possible to be alive in Jesus but still not be alive to abundance.
Everyone knows when a robber tries to steal, but a thief steals in secret. The thief tempts us by appealing to our flesh - what I want; what I think; what I feel. There is no place in this world that nullifies your humanity so we must be alert to recognize the thief and our choices. The thief suggests that the boundaries of God are too rigid. Do we listen to those lies or stay under the authority of God? Who is the source and author of your life? Thirst for self rule is unquenchable. Pleasure in sin is short lived as there are always consequences.
God is more concerned about our holiness than our happiness but He does bless when we submit and obey. Through Christ we are a new creation; clean like His original creation. We have the choices to produce good fruit or a rotten crop, if any at all. Love God and love your neighbor. Live under authority and you can have a full, abundant life.
I like the message in this song -
Lifesong
Romans 8:13 (NIV)
13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.
Today I pray that God will keep me from temptation and help me stay under His Authority. I am thankful for all of my blessings but most important I am thankful for the gift of eternal life ... blessings in this life are a bonus.
