Crandell
One of the great themes emerging in the New Testament is that of God’s abundance. His spiritual blessings are given to us in overflowing measures. We see this truth illustrated in three different areas in Paul’s writing to the church he planted in Philippi.
In Philippians 1:9-10 we read, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” Like many spiritual blessings, we aren’t infused with only one dosage of love when Christ comes into our lives. It will be poured into us and refreshed over and over again throughout our Christian lives. “Abound” means not to just have enough but have it spilling over the sides. Paul loved the Philippians and told them so. I hope that God’s love fills our hearts so full that we must do the same with others.
In Philippians 3:7-8 we read, “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” Again, we hear the language of abundance and overflow in Paul’s description of “surpassing worth.” Knowing Christ is not just an okay thing, pretty cool thing, or necessary thing, it gives us surpassing worth. In a world where worth and value are often measured by possessions, achievements and success, we find that knowing, loving, serving, and sharing Christ gives us even more worth.
In Philippians 4:6-8 we read, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Again, we hear of the abundant, overflowing, out of this world, “peace of God.” It can’t be fully understood because it does not originate from us, nor is it manufactured by us. It’s God’s peace flooding our hearts and replacing anxiety through the spiritual discipline of prayer. His peace is potent enough to guard both our hearts and minds as a trained Roman prisoner guard’s inmates in a prison cell. Speaking of prison cells, this is precisely where the Apostle Paul penned these words about God’s abundant spiritual blessings.
These are only a few examples from only one of Paul’s letters. Let’s also remember that God gives us hope that overflows, Romans 15:13, strength for any task, Philippians 4:13, grace for all occasions, II Corinthians 9:8, and life more abundantly, John 10:10. To put it simply, no matter how much of God you have right now, he has more for you. Open your heart, be filled, and then let it flow to everyone, everywhere.
Donny Crandell is pastor at Crossroads Church.