John 10:10 – Life Stealer

Daily Devotional Bible Verse

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10 ESV)

Jesus came to bring us truth (John 18:37), freedom (Luke 4:18), light (John 8:12), and as we read today, life. As we often hear, to do this he lived blamelessly, not once compromising or submitting to temptation, and never forsaking the Father’s will. As followers of Christ we find this life and give glory to Him by obeying Him and walking as He walked. We have been redeemed, literally taken from a domain of darkness to a kingdom of light (Colossians 1:13-14) and this changes us. Our deepest desires now resonate with the things that are of the light, that glorify God and conform us to His image. God gives us the ability to face the hard things in life, things that require great effort, courage, and strength.

However, though we are upheld by the Lord, we should never forget is that there is also a powerful enemy in this world. This enemy is a thief, a liar, and as strong as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8). He is also clever, and doesn’t always display his strength in such obvious ways; remember, he is of the darkness. God brings us into our purpose and calling, with the Spirit leading us into partnership with God. When we look at our lives, can we say that we are accomplishing what God has set before us?

What is your calling? Is it to be a Godly husband and father, spiritually leading your household even when you’re tired? Is it to be a student of God’s word, entering more deeply into its truth, even when there are video games around? Whatever it may be, do not let the enemy steal your life through apathy, distraction, or fear. Jesus lived, incarnated, and died so that we could be in right relationship with God, the enemy will employ any means necessary to keep us from that. Though his fingerprints are not so easily visible, they are all too often effective in keeping us from fulfilling our glorious purpose.

Take a moment to reflect on just what or who God has made you to be. Now what is keeping you from doing or being that man or woman of God? Resist the enemy, the stealer of life, and press into the Giver of life.