August 19th
Jesus Came to Give Life
John 10:10
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.
Life More Abundantly
In this verse Jesus reveals His main purpose for coming to the earth. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly, or, that is, in abundance. The life He speaks of includes the life of God imparted to us in salvation, the life that is eternal and infinite, the very nature of God Himself, as well as all good things needed to maintain life in this earth. He is the Good Shepherd Who provides for us.
What does “abundant” mean?
The word “abundant” means exceeding a certain measure, or being over and above what is necessary. To have abundance is to simply have more than we need. The phrase “more abundantly” in its essence means more than enough.
Steal, Kill and Destroy
On the other hand, there is one referred to here as the thief, who comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. That one, of course, is the devil, whose job in the earth is to steal and take away our life, our blessing, as well as everything else that he can. Yes, there is a devil, though he has worked tirelessly to convince the world that he is merely a myth, and doesn’t exist. Jesus came to deliver us from the devil’s influence on our lives. He gave us authority as believers to stand against the wicked one, to resist him, and to cause him to flee from us. Resist him in the name of Jesus, and he will flee from you.
Look to the LORD today to provide for your needs in abundance. He is faithful Who has promised.