‘‘Always abounding in the work of the Lord.’’ 1 Corinthians 15:58
In Scripture the word ‘abounding’ means ‘to overflow.’ Today let’s look at three ‘abounding’ Scriptures and see what we can learn:
(1) Abounding iniquity. ‘Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold’ (Matthew 24:12). The word ‘iniquity’ means ‘lawlessness.’ Do you remember your life before you met Jesus? You had no boundaries. You were ruled by your impulses. You’d go anywhere, do anything, and say whatever you pleased. Now, we’re not bringing up your past to make you feel bad, but to make you grateful and to show you how far God has brought you. And what was God’s solution to your sin problem?
(2) Abounding grace. ‘Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more’ (Romans 5:20). God’s grace cannot be earned or merited. And that’s a good thing, because we were all spiritually bankrupt. But as Martin Luther said, ‘The recognition of sin is the beginning of salvation.’ It’s feeling bad about your sin that leads to feeling good about God’s grace. Do you remember the day Jesus found you, saved you, brought you into His family and showered you with His blessings? What should your response to such grace be?
(3) Abounding in the work of the Lord. ‘Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.’ You were saved to serve! When you don’t, you’ll feel like a fish out of water. So pray, ‘Lord, today I give myself fully to You, to be used in Your service as You see fit.’
