The Abundant Life: Riches money can’t buy…
Those living the abundant life follow the biblical instructions that tell us to always be ready to respectfully give an answer to those who ask for the hope that is within us. (1 Peter 3:15 KJV) That answer is Jesus! However, how that answer is given requires some finesse.
Some preachers use 1 Peter 3:15 as an exhortation to study our Bibles so we’ll know the answers to biblical trivia questions. Others think it means we need to be intentionally leading people to Christ. Both concepts may have some merit.
However, knowing how many cubits were used to build an ark may not really be helpful to others. Also, I’m not sure it’s our job to actually lead people to Christ. Jesus said no one can come to Him unless He draws them to Him. (John 6:44) The abundant life does not feel compelled to force-feed Jesus to others all the time, whether they are interested or not.
Perhaps one intent of this passage is that when others see Christians go through trials they are amazed at how well they handle them, no matter what comes their way. The reason for this is hope. Christian hope has a positive, encouraging energy that others can’t quite understand. This hope is attractive to a hurting world. This hope gives a peace that passes understanding even in the worst situations. (Philippians 4:7) It’s natural that others would be curious and ask where that hope comes from. The answer is simple. It comes from Jesus.
Jesus is the answer to all the problems in this world. When people have questions, Jesus is the answer—and we shouldn’t be afraid to share personal examples in our lives to show this if someone asks. Is someone sick? Jesus is the healer and great physician. Is someone seeking knowledge? Jesus is the great teacher. Is someone weary? Jesus gives us rest and comfort. Is someone worried? Jesus gives us peace. Does someone think nobody cares? Jesus cares and because He cares, so should we. Does someone feel like a loser? The world may think we are losers but Jesus does not. His life in ours makes us winners regardless of circumstances.
Those living the abundant life know they have assured promises through their relationship with Jesus. Others can have this assurance as well. What we experience on earth is only temporary. Trials can’t be compared to what lies ahead or who lives in us. (Romans 8:18) Jesus is the hope that lives in us!
The abundant life knows that if people have questions, Jesus is the answer.
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“…I have come that they may have life and that they
may have it more abundantly.” ~John 10:10 (KJV)
