That We may Believe: Reading Through John预览

Bookstores are filled with self-help books advising how to add years to your life and life to your years. Nearby shelves of glossy magazines promise the secrets to create the perfect home, finding the right man, and mastering the subtleties of beauty and fitness.

All this advice also swirls through our social media feeds, on television, and in conversations with friends and family. Yet, a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found, between 1999 and 2016, the suicide rates increased in every U.S. state except one.

John 10:10 tells us the reason: we have a real enemy. He comes after us with a no-holds-barred attack designed “only to steal and kill and destroy.” Satan will try every trick to separate or keep us separated from God. He wants to keep us from discovering and experiencing what Jesus offers—life, and to “have it to the full.” 

Abundant, overflowing, completely filled. That’s the kind of life Jesus offers us when we trust in Him, as the Son of God, for salvation and submit to Him as Lord.

As Christians, we’ve already received this gift of abundant life. Jesus won the victory over sin and death—and will win the ultimate battle against Satan. We can and should live in light of His triumph.

The King of Kings and Lord of Lords values us. He loved us enough to endure terrible physical, emotional, and spiritual pain when He took on our sins. He rose again to welcome us into His family. What a wonderful gift He gives—the promise of abundant life! 

Celebrate it today as you walk in His victory and love.

What is something abundant in your life that you can thank Jesus for right now? 

~Dawn Talbert