Abundant Life

"The thief comes not but to kill, steal and destroy. You have come that we may have life and that we might have it more abundantly." John 10:10

What does 'abundant life' look like to you? As I reflect on my own life, I think about things I would have done differently and things that have turned out well. My sincere hope is that when my time comes to meet Jesus face to face in the heavenlies, I will not look back on how I've lived and have any regrets. I want to live life to the fullest, while also honoring God in everything I do. So many people think that they can't have "fun" and still have a relationship with Christ. How far from the truth that thinking is! The times when I've had no regrets are the times my walk has been strongest.

Things I would have done differently include times when I've been overweight and self-conscious. I didn't try out for sports, cheerleading or dance - things I would have wanted to do - in school because I feared I wouldn't be good enough. There are times that I didn't go to certain events because I would fear how I would look in a bathing suit or worse, if there was a weight limit, etc. I remember being asked to go white water rafting and thinking, what if I fall out and don't have the strength to climb back in? Living in fear of what others think and of my own body and its limitations is NOT abundant life. In fact, the ONLY thing I would have changed about my wedding day (other than my mom feeling a little better since she had a cold) would be how I looked in my wedding gown - I would have liked to have been much thinner.

We can't go back and change the past - the only thing we can do is affect the present and future. I want to live an abundant life where I am fit for service to others. I want to see as much as possible of my children's, grandchildren's and hopefully even great-grandchildren's lives. I want to be able to practice sports with them, go on family vacations, take walks or bike rides and not feel out of shape or out of "style." I also want my husband to think I'm the sexiest thing in town. :) I desire to have an abundant life, living every moment as if it may be my last.

Christ came that we might have that abundant life. He died on the cross for our past sins so that we can have freedom from addictions and the ability to change our lifestyle for His glory. He even promises to be with us always (Matthew 28:20) and help us in our struggles. Oprah once said "nothing tastes as good as being thin feels." I'm hoping I'll some day get to agree with her on that statement! Until then, I'm giving myself completely to God to allow Him to transform my life into abundant living. To Him be all glory, honor and praise!

Dear Jesus, thank You for giving us abundant life. Thank You for the cross and for walking alongside us. Lord, we want to live life with no regrets. Help us as we desire to make a change for Your glory and honor. Help us live life to the fullest! In Jesus' name, AMEN!