What Does It Mean to Live an Abundant Life in Christ and Follow God’s Best?

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The world beckons us to pursue our best life and “follow our bliss” to find true happiness. Yet the good news is, we’re not called find fulfillment or satisfaction in this world. Through Christ Jesus alone, we can unlock complete soul satisfaction and discover what it means to live an abundant life. By following the only true God, we discover how to live with purpose and live a life of abundance here on earth.

While the world whispers lies of striving, social status, and self worth, the Gospel reveals a path of hope and promise that’s not reliant on our own striving.

Through faith in our Savior Jesus Christ, we are promised an abundant life in Him alone. This life of spiritual abundance is an invitation to let go of the ways of the world and step into a place of true soul satisfaction.

What does abundant life mean in the Bible?

Jesus tells us in John’s gospel, that a personal relationship with Him is the key to abundant living and a full life here on earth. As we uncover what Scripture says about living an abundant life in Christ, let’s explore several translations of this powerful verse.

​“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  John 10:10 (English Standard Version)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. John 10:10 (New International Version)

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly. (New King James Version)

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. (New Living Translation) 

Word study on ‘life’

As we closely examine the text, we notice that all of these translations have the word, life. So let’s do a study of the word life to further engage with Scripture . (On a personal note, I love doing a word study as a way to dig deeper when I study the Bible).

The biblical definition of life, Zóé, refers to both physical life and spiritual life. Upon faith in Christ, He has made new our physical life by rescuing us from the depths of our sin and giving us the gift of eternal life.

He has also restored us spiritually by giving us the Holy Spirit to help us keep an eternal perspective throughout our days. Plus, through this gift of grace, our relationship with our Heavenly Father has been restored and we can enter into sweet fellowship with God.

Word study on ‘abundant’

Now, let’s examine the word abundant. Abundant is the Greek word Perissos, which means “to exceed a number, measure, rank, or need.” It symbolizes an overflow, surplus, or abundance of something.

Knowing Jesus has give us a surplus, an abundance of grace,  brings us comfort and hope during trials and hardship. We can remain steadfast in the storms of life because of what Jesus has done for us and knowing our eternity with Him is secure.

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Abundant Life in Christ vs. Worldly Living

When we compare and contrast the abundant life in Christ vs. that of the world, you’ll notice they look vastly different. The abundant life in Christ holds a unique way of living and looking at the world.

God’s children know their life is fulfilled in the glorious presence of God and longs to live a life that’s pleasing to the Lord.

A child of God understands there’s a continual process of learning to live for God, but uses the Holy Bible as a road map through life. Plus, a child of God longs to discover and put to use their spiritual gifts to honor God with their life.

However, those who are still stuck in their sin and not yet come to faith in Jesus, live on a different path.  Those separated for Christ may often find themselves searching for happiness in expensive cars, visions of lavish homes, and putting their faith in the good times or their current circumstances.

Yet material possessions and physical blessings will never fill the longing in their soul or the cry of their heart. As the U.S. suicide rates surges, it’s a reminder that the only hope in life is Jesus. The trappings of this world are fleeting, but the Kingdom of God is eternal.

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4 Keys to Living an Abundant Life in Christ

Key #1: Faith and reliance on God

As a weary soul who’s looking for hope and longing for joy, there’s only one place you’ll find it. True soul satisfaction is found at the foot of the cross and through a personal relationship with Jesus.

But knowing and accepting the free gift of grace at the cross is just the beginning. 

God wants us to live an abundant life here on Earth and to make Him the cornerstone of every area our life. When we learn to rely on God, we have an anchor in the storm and refuge from hardship.

When God becomes our cornerstone, we experience:

• Hope in the storm
• Peace in chaos
• Joy in suffering
• Strength in hardship

THIS is living in abundance! The more that our faith grows and we press into God in all circumstances, the more we experience the abundant life God has for us. 

Knowing God’s character and clinging to His promises helps us battle spiritual warfare and keeps our eyes focused on His truth. Then, when we’re surrounded by trouble, we can recognize God’s truth from the lies of the enemy and hold this world with loose and open hands.

We won’t search for hope or fulfillment here on Earth.  For when we remember that our eternal abundance is beyond our wildest imagination, we tread lightly in this world knowing it’s not our home and our heart isn’t meant to be complete here. 

Key #2: Understanding Your Identity in Christ

After one accepts Jesus’ free gift of grace at the cross, we emerge changed and transformed. We are no longer the same and every single mistake and misstep has been washed clean. (PRAISE THE LORD FOR GRACE!!)

But often shame, guilt, and regret hold us back from living our true identity in Christ.

When we remember that God’s grace has made us new and we’re no longer a slave to sin, we are ready to fully embrace the abundant life God has for us.

In Christ we are:

• Free from shame, guilt, and failure
• Made whole and complete, despite our own shortcomings
• Ready to follow God’s plan for our life, not our own

And as a daughter of the King, you have a special role and purpose in the Kingdom of God. In fact, God has blessed you with talents and abilities to use for His glory. 

When you understand that He’s called you and set you free on purpose, you’re able to live in God’s abundance and long to live for His glory.

Key #3: Managing Your Life and Resources for the Glory of God

While living an abundant life in Christ does not rely on your actions or call you to achieve anything, God does call us to steward our life well. Once you know the freedom and hope of God, you’ll seek to honor Him in all areas of your life. 

As a busy woman, life can fill up quickly and if you’re not careful, overwhelm can set in. That’s why it’s important to honor God with your time and manage your home and life for His glory.  

Therefore, by being intentional with your minutes and making the most of your resources, you can make room for what matters most.

Learning to plan your days and organize your life well can help you live an abundant life because you will have time and energy to:

• Be still before the Lord
• Intentionally disciple your family
• Raise your children to love the Lord
• Minister to others
• Open your home for hospitality
• Reach out to others and build relationship for the glory of God

Discover how the Abundant Life Planner can help you manage your life for the glory of God and connect with God all the days of your life.  Learn more here

Please understand, though, that nothing about being organized or stewarding your life well is required by God for salvation or as a way to work your way into heaven.  The more you understand God’s grace and how He’s set you free, the more you long to make your minutes matter and live with intention.

Key #4: Live faith in action

A life transformed by God’s grace wants to share the message of hope with everyone! Once you experience the hope and abundance of God, you simply can’t keep quiet.

You’ll want to radiate God’s love and truth to those around you.

As a result, you’ll look for ways to:

• Share the Gospel (even if your knees are knocking!)
• Offer biblical wisdom to those in need of wise counsel
• Tangibly find ways to serve and be the hands and feet of Jesus
• Shine the hope of Jesus to a lost and darkened world

Are you ready to walk in God’s abundance?

Together, let’s journey towards God’s freedom and learn to live in His abundance. May we step into God’s purpose and plan for our lives and move past our shortcomings with God’s help.

Join us for a special series, An Abundant Life in Christ. Each week we’ll unpack biblical truths and practical lifestyle tips to help you live on mission for the glory of God in everyday life.

This series includes these titles below, so stay tuned each week to learn practical ways to live in abundance in your own life.

3 Lies That Keep You From Living Your Best Life as a Christian Woman

5 Truths About Faith in God That Help You Live Your Purpose

11 Christian Affirmations to Break Free from Shame, Guilt, and Failure

7 Practical Ways to Embrace Your Identity in Christ and Live in Abundance

How to Set Goals That Help You Live Your Identity in Christ

5 Daily Routines Every Christian Women Needs to Conquer Overwhelm

25 Practical Ways to Meditate on God’s Word Throughout the Day

Let’s chat: What stumbling blocks keep you stuck and keep you from living an abundant life?