Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
This is a devotional I posted nearly a year ago, but I want to share it again today. I just celebrated another birthday, and I feel so abundantly blessed and loved by my family with the very thoughtful gifts and the joy of the time we spent together. And I’m reminded again of God’s gift of life, His love that never changes, His constant presence, and His promise of eternal life with Him. So, here is the message from last year:
The first thought that came to mind as I awakened this morning was about the abundant blessings God has given me. I thank Him above all else for His love and for the incomparable gift of salvation! The words “abundant” and “lavish” came to mind and I began thinking about the Scriptures that use those words to describe God’s love and His actions toward those who belong to Him.
Eph. 1:7-8 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. (Notice especially the word “lavished.” The dictionary defines lavish: “bestow something in generous or extravagant quantities on”). In order to forgive and redeem us, it cost God the death of His Son on the cross! (John 3:16) Nothing could show us greater love than that!
John 10:10 I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
Matthew 14:13-21 Jesus asked the disciples to provide food for the multitudes that had followed them. An impossible task! But with the five loaves of bread and two fish that were available, Jesus miraculously provided food for thousands of people with food left over! He is able to take what little we have to offer Him and turn it into more than enough for the task He has called us to do.
Psalm 86:5 For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.
Psalm 86:15 But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.
I am reminded again today to be grateful for all God has done for me, and to give Him the praise!
PERSONAL REFLECTION
Whatever is going on in your life right now, even if the situation seems impossible, I pray that you will be encouraged as you are reminded of God’s Word and His never-ending love for you.
Maybe you are in a season in which you are experiencing God’s lavish blessing. Thank Him for that!
Remember that He is able to do “far more abundantly beyond what we ask or think!”
Lord, we give you all the glory!
Truly – we are daily blessed! Sounds like you are full to overflowing. PTL!
Sherrilyn – Have you noticed the email I sent you on 6/25?
I love that word “lavish!” God’s grace toward me is indeed overwhelming.
Dear Sherrilyn,
Thank you for your encouraging message and scriptures. I’ve been feeling my losses more than ever of late and needed this reminder that God gives to us more than we can ask or imagine and that He can multiply the little we offer to Him. Though I have little strength and little to offer, He is able and loving and powerful. He reminds me now of Psa 42:5 “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance.” You are one of His sweet and gracious gifts to me.