To understand this concept we must move from earthly thinking to eternal, heavenly thinking. Frankly that is quite difficult. We seem to be captured by the "here and now". We look around and see the person with the new (whatever) or bigger, faster, nicer, (whatever). We see someone with a better paying job, etc... and we begin to think we have been cheated.
Too often we miss seeing the abundance of God's eternal value system and we think we have been cheated. I like the sentence from the devo; "Instead, we should think of abundance as God does - as the marvelous gift of salvation and eternal life; the blessings of a relationship with the creator of the universe; the treasure of God's Word; and the wonderful character traits of godliness, truthfulness, wisdom, and a good reputation.
Sometimes I can get in the "poor me" because the "earthly" retirement for most preachers (me included) is rather meager. And then I watch people retire early and live luxuriously. Then, I am reminded of my "real" and eternal retirement in heaven. Hey, that is pretty high class, luxurious and abundant living. So, I say to myself, "Joe, get perspective!"
This requires an eternal perspective not a "here and now" viewpoint! Where are you viewing your life of abundance?
God bless you,
PJ
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Abundance to me has always meant having money. Enough money to pay the bills and buy whatever I want when I want it. I have never reached that level. What I have been striving for has been to get my "wants" in line with God's "wants" for my life. Not an easy thing to do with all the worldly advertisements for this or that. Then I see how people in other cultures live or others who have less than I do and I am ashamed of my selfishness. Too many people live fulfilled lives in the abundance of God's presence and they have far less money and possessions than I. When I get my life in line with God's word and plan, then I will have true abundance and can live happy and fulfilled no matter my life's circumstances. Am I there? No. But God is faithful to guide me through His Word and devotionals like this and the Purpose Driven Connection. Father help me to daily see how much you have for me and that it is for eternity as well as a fulfilled life here. Thank you Father.
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