Living Life Abundantly

Jesus said,"... I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance, to the full, till it overflows." John 10:10 amp

Sometimes as a mom I start to get into the "make it through the day mode." I'm sure you know what I'm talking about, the times when you did not sleep a wink the night before, you are in a bad mood, your house is a wreck, your kids are whiny, and you feel overwhelmed. Please tell me I'm not the only one who has felt this way!

I believe there are times when "make it through the day mode" may be all we have in us, as in times of grief over loss of a loved one, or tragic news of some kind. I believe God knows us through and through (Psalm 139) and gives us mercy where needed. (Heb 4:16)

I also believe that on most days of our lives, we are able to live life abundantly. It is easy for me as a mom to switch to negative Ashley (especially when i havent slept!) but that is not what God wants for me. He sent His son so that I may have abundant life, life to the full, till it overflows!

So, I must find ways with the Lord's help to live life this way. I want to share with you three ways I have found that help me not just make it through the day but live life abundantly in Him.

1) Take it one day at a time
If I think about the future, I might get overwhelmed. My task as it says in Matthew 6:34 is to focus on today's tasks. When I do this, life seems much more doable.

2) Take 10 minutes to relax and do something I enjoy.
God is not a stuffy or boring God. He gave us interests so we can glorify Him with them and with everything we do. (Isaiah 26:8) God is perfectly happy watching me sew, or do crafts. He loves to watch me do something I enjoy.

3) Find ways to be Thankful.
This tip has been the most helpful for me. If I am having a bad day, if I simply take time to really think about what I am thankful for I genuinely start living life abundantly through Him! (Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:30, 2 Corinthians 15:57)

What are some ways you with God's help and direction, shift out of "make it through the day mode" to living life abundantly in Him?