ABUNDANT LIFE
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10
What is quality of life for the Christian? How does Christ define quality living? He gives abundant life, but what does this look like for those who love the Lord? Abundant life begins by receiving the gift of God in the life of Christ. “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son” (1 John 5:11). Quality of life begins with eternal life as the end goal. God offers abundant life as a reward for our salvation.
Quality of life means we live life motivated by what outcomes will live on into eternity. Perhaps I get less and give more. By adjusting down my standard of living, I am able to give more toward what matters to Jesus. The Lord modeled well for us a life of quality. One example was His unselfish service, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:4). Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Service to others brings quality of life to all parties.
“(30) And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: (31) But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” John 20:30-31
Quality of life may not lead to ease and comfort, as our culture likes to advertise. Paul described his life of obedience to the Lord as a dangerous way, (2 Corinthians 11:26-27) (26) In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren: (27) In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.
How is my quality of life? Is it abundant in its obedience to Christ? Is He my life to the point His priorities are my priorities? Do I let go of earthly indulgences so others can gain eternal rewards?
“(1) If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set you affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3
Prayer
Is my quality of life defined by Christ’s life at work in and through me?
Application
What in my life competes for my abundant life in Christ?
Related Reading
John 4:14; John 7:38; John 11:26; Luke 17:33; Philippians 1:21; 1st Corinthians 15:19
