The Abundant Life: Riches money can’t buy…
Today’s world is adept at making us feel insignificant and worthless. Those living the abundant life know it isn’t true. What we do matters!
The Bible is full of examples of one person changing the course of history. Daniel was instrumental in influencing King Nebuchadnezzar. Esther saved her people from destruction by risking her life to go before the king. While it is true most of us won’t be changing the course of governments, global warming, social reform, or much of anything else on a grand scale, we do affect the lives of each and every person we meet. What we do makes a difference!
Rahab the harlot had three handicaps in the eyes of any self-respecting Israelite. She was a Gentile which was considered pagan. She was a woman in a time when women had no rights. She was a prostitute which was the lowest form of a woman. Yet she is listed among the faithful in Hebrews. (Hebrews 11:31)
When the Israelite spies entered her city of Jericho she risked her life to hide them. Not only did she hide them but she sent the soldiers looking for them on a wild goose chase. Then she helped the spies escape. (Joshua 2) The Bible doesn’t really tell us why she did this. Perhaps she had heard the stories of how the Israelite God had delivered his people time and time again. She obviously believed that such a God existed.
In return for her kindness, she asked the spies to spare not only her life, but the lives of her family when they attacked. (Joshua 2:12-13) When Joshua and the Israelites attacked Jericho and the walls came tumbling down, the Israelites attacked and killed everything that breathed in the city—everything except Rahab and her family. (Joshua 6:22-27)
Rahab was only one person, yet because of her actions not only was she spared but her whole family as well. Her family did nothing to deserve deliverance. However, what she did affected their lives greatly. It made the difference between life and death.
Those living the abundant life are well aware that they make a difference in the lives of those around them. Communities will notice if they stand up for what is right. Spouses can come to Christ if they live the gospel. (1 Peter 3:1) Children will learn by their example how to love, be compassionate, and show kindness or how to hate and think only of themselves. The abundant life knows that we are all significant and what we do significantly affects those around us.
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“…I have come that they may have life and that they
may have it more abundantly.” ~John 10:10 (KJV)
