Abundant Love

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10 (KJV)

Have you ever prayed for spiritual eyes only to be surprised or disappointed at the results?
This morning, I asked the Lord to show me opportunities to love as he loves. I want to love people the way he loves people and extend more of his love.

As I drove to work this morning I witnessed a youth in anger pick up a concrete block and throw it onto a the busy highway. It just missed hitting a woman's vehicle. When the upset driver got out of the car and approached the youth, he picked up a stick and started after her with it. This boy was only a teen. Anger, hatred, rage filled his countenance. Thirty minutes later I was walking the hallways of a community high school. The language coming from our teen's mouths grieved my spirit. I eye witnessed open displays of what the bible calls abomination.

Before 8:30 am I had 'seen' so much corruption, I wept before our Heavenly Father wondering just how to reach this lost generation of youth. In my weeping He gently reminded me of the reason He came. It was to bring life, abundant life, to restore that which the enemy had stolen. I was also reminded just how much He loves those the enemy has kidnapped. His love is extravagant love, and He desires us as carriers of heaven to spread His love.

These precious young people are our future. They are our Father's creation--they are kidnapped royalty. The scripture tells us that the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus came to bring life, abundant life. He is passionate about the lost and dying world, he wants to give them abundant life.

As women, we are the heart of our homes. Our children, grandchildren and generational grandchildren need to be covered in prayer. Our youth are struggling, there is an entire generation lacking in Christian education. Few teens have godly influences in their lives. There is a general lack of respect for authority and a 'me' centered world-view.

The Lord allowed me to 'see' a few things that grieved my spirit as I asked Him to heighten my spiritual senses. Though it was painful, it was also rewarding. The Father reminded me how much He loves those that do not know Him. It is our honor to pray for our young people.

I would challenge you today to ask the Lord to show you places where you can extend more of Chris's love.

Father, change my heart today to see people the way You see them and to love with Your extravagant love. In Jesus Name. Amen

Geri Hoggard