One of my all-time favorite verses, one I come back to often, is John 10:10.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Who is the thief in this passage? Satan. And who is the “I” in this passage? Jesus.
The purposes of Satan and Jesus could not be more different. Satan seeks to destroy, robbing you of goodness and leaving you broken. In contrast, Jesus desires that you experience abundant life—both now and for eternity.
The thief often steals in subtle ways: distracting you from what matters, sowing doubt about God’s goodness, replacing peace with worry, and offering hopelessness and frustration.
Matthew 6:28-29 reveals a powerful truth. “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you – you of little faith?
In this passage, Jesus zeroes in on the worries and doubts that distract us from truly living. We often get caught up in striving for things that, in the end, leave us empty. Solomon was renowned as the wealthiest man in the world—he could buy anything and lacked nothing, living in constant abundance. Jesus reminds us that God created the beauty of the flowers, which did nothing to earn it; their splendor came entirely from Him. The striking conclusion is that even Solomon’s finest attire, amassed through his own efforts, pales in comparison to the beauty God brings forth.
With God, there is true abundance. The enemy of our souls wants us to believe we are lacking, but abundant living is found when we follow Jesus’ words at the end of Matthew 6: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (verse 33)
Lack comes when we seek other things above Christ. When we seek Him first, He will reveal His abundant living He intends for us.
One practical way to seek His kingdom first is to start each day with a morning gratitude pause. Before diving into daily tasks, take a few moments to reflect on the blessings in your life and thank God for them. This simple practice can help to focus on God’s provision and align your intentions with His will throughout the day.
May we continue to live…
Rooted in Him,
