The Abundant Life: Riches money can’t buy…
Those living the abundant life appreciate the beauty around them.
The first time I went to Italy I noticed that even the sparsest table would have a tiny vase with a fresh flower in it. Small balconies of apartment complexes held potted plants or containers with vibrant blossoms. I was struck by how the poorest life seemed to be uplifted by a little beauty. It was then I decided to be a little more attuned to the beauty around me.
One definition of beauty is the quality or a combination of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit. This kind of beauty has a positive effect on how we feel, think, and react. Beauty can bring pleasure and delight, and even at times rest. People are inspired by a melodic tune, a touching poem, a majestic view, a babbling brook, or falling snow. These are beautiful things. God placed within us a desire to appreciate beauty because it draws us closer to Him.
Children are adept at noticing the wonders of Creation. When adults see a dandelion patch they might think of weeds, but a child envisions flowers for Mom. They delight in making a wish and blowing all the white fluff off so their dreams will come true. Children easily look beyond someone’s appearance. When adults notice an old beggar who smiles at them, they identify him as a smelly, dirty person who wants money. Kids see someone smiling at them and they smile back. They see a person, not a beggar. Is it any wonder Jesus told us to become like little children? (Matthew 18:2-4)
Actually, life is full of beauty from beginning to end. Life can be likened to an exquisite sunrise in the morning that ends with an enchanting sunset at the end of the day. And all the days in between hold God’s provisions of beauty in many forms found in nature, art, music, laughter, and love. It is beautiful when new life is celebrated and a passing one is remembered.
God tells us He has made everything beautiful in His own time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) The Psalms are full of descriptions declaring the beauty of the Lord which exists in nature, in the mountains, in His temple, in heaven, and so many other places. God is beautiful. (Psalm 27:4) The very act of serving Jesus is a beautiful thing. (Mark 14:6) A repentant life, a changed heart, and a yielded spirit are all beautiful.
Helen Keller said, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen…They must be felt with the heart.” What great perception —especially from a blind woman!
Those living abundant lives appreciate genuine beauty. They know it can’t be bought, but it can be experienced—and that’s what they do!
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“…I have come that they may have life and that they
may have it more abundantly.” ~John 10:10 (KJV)
