Laurie Hopkins

There is abundant life.  

Often we find ourselves “just getting by”, “surviving”, “and managing”.  

But Jesus tells us that although the thief (the devil) comes to steal, kill and destroy, 

He (Jesus) has come that we may have life. 

Not just any life, but abundant life. 

Many people think about Jesus and think about dos and don’ts, rules and regulations.  

But Jesus is not about religion.  

Jesus is about relationship.  

Jesus came to restore the relationship between us and the Father.  

As in any relationship, there are things best done and not done, but as in any relationship, the focus is on getting to know the other person, not how well you play by the rules. 

A relationship with Jesus enriches your life.  

It allows us to get past the “just getting by”, “surviving”, and “managing” and helps us to move into life and life more abundantly. 

It is the sweetest relationship you will ever find. 

I can’t tell you why it will be sweet for you, only that I know it is sweet to me, it’s a personal thing. Try it out for yourself today and take that first step towards abundant living!

Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38

How many times do we ask God to use us for the good of others and for His glory?  

How many times do we also, when called to be used, turn away because it is too hard, too costly, or too much outside of our comfort zone?  

Mary had a willing heart.  

She hadn’t asked to be used but the Lord knew her heart and presented her with the opportunity to carry the Son of God.  

Although this would mean great sacrifice and cost to Mary, without hesitation she responded, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” 

What does our heart look like today?  

Soft, pliable, tender and willing – or have we become hardened and skeptical about our ability to be used effectively in the world?  

The Father is looking for willing hearts;  willing hearts that are still tender and pliable – full of compassion, and willing to take a step of faith, out of the box and out of the comfort zone. 

Willing hearts are the open door for miracles to occur!

The angel visited Mary and told her she would bear the Son of God – in a totally supernatural way.   When Mary questioned the “how” of it all, the angel pointed out that Elizabeth too was visited in a supernatural way, and about to bear a son in her advanced age.  

“For with God nothing will be impossible.” 

How do you need the Lord to move supernaturally in your life today? 

What “impossible” to you need Him to overcome? 

There is no impossible with Him.  

He is the God of creative miracles.  

He hears your heart and sees the plans He has for you.  

Be encouraged today and began to speak to that “impossible” in the name of Jesus!