From the Old Testament through the New, the words that are used to describe our Lord’s dealings with mankind are nothing short of lavish. Just a few examples: “I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore” (Genesis 22:17). … “And the LORD of hosts will prepare a lavish banquet for all peoples on this mountain; a banquet of aged wine, choice pieces with marrow, and refined, aged wine” (Isaiah 25:6). … “my cup runneth over” (Psalm 23:5). … “good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38).
However, meeting our physical needs and desires is only part of the generosity the Lord wants us to experience. From the Old Testament through the New He has also always wanted us to know Him. He wants us to experience His person as lavishly as we experience His provision. Consider these verses: “In Thy presence is fulness of joy; In Thy right hand there are pleasures forever” (Psalm 16:11). … “Thy lovingkindness is better than life” (Psalm 63:3). … “I came that they might have life and might have it abundantly” (John 10:10). He has always wanted us to know His ways, not just His acts. To learn to hear His voice. To know what makes Him smile. What motivates Him. His creativity. His humor. To sense His joy, His affection and gentleness. In other words, He not only wants to “do” for us, He wants to “be” to us. May we be blessed this week as we seek the abundance of the Lord’s person as well as provision.
Leave a Reply