Life’s Purpose: Embracing the Overflow of Christ’s Life
“For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).
Our Christian journey often circles back to one central truth: we are not self-sufficient. The life we are called to live, one of bearing fruit for God’s glory, is not something we produce through our own effort or striving. Instead, it is the natural outcome of abiding in Christ, our Vine, who provides everything we need.
A.J. Gordon’s words in today’s Abide Above devotional beautifully illustrate this principle: “The vine furnishes the branches, not only with the principle of life, but with the type of life.” As branches, we are not responsible for creating the fruit or even shaping it—we are merely vessels through which the life of the Vine flows. Just as the root determines the branch’s form, taste, and fragrance, so too does Christ’s life within us shape every detail of our spiritual growth.
The Unfolding of Joy and Sorrow
Gordon adds something deeply thought-provoking: “For such a manifestation will, by a necessary principle, be the unfolding within him of every needed element of joy and sorrow, of suffering and triumph.” This reminds us that abiding in Christ means embracing the entire spectrum of His life—both the joy of His presence and the fellowship of His sufferings. In His divine wisdom, God orchestrates our circumstances, not just for our happiness but for our growth. The triumphs remind us of His power; the trials deepen our dependence on Him. Each aspect unfolds as part of a greater, richer purpose.
Not Overwork, but Overflow
When we grasp this truth, it transforms how we approach life’s demands. Too often, we succumb to the trap of striving, believing that our efforts will accomplish God’s work. Yet, as today’s devotional reminds us, “Straining, driving effort does not accomplish the work God gives a man to do.” Instead, we are called to partake of Christ so fully that His life overflows from ours. It is not about how much we can do for God but how much of Him is seen in and through us.
Complete in Him
What a relief it is to rest in this truth: “And ye are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power” (Colossians 2:10). In Christ, we lack nothing. He is our source, our sustainer, and our sufficiency. The fruit we bear—whether in seasons of joy or sorrow—originates from His fullness, not our lack.
A Thought to Carry with You
Are you living in the overflow of Christ’s life, or are you striving to bear fruit through your own strength? Take a moment to reflect on what it means to abide in Him today. Rest in the knowledge that His life within you is enough to meet every need, shape every moment, and bring forth fruit that lasts for eternity.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for being the source of our life and sufficiency. We trust You to manifest the life of Jesus in us, unfolding everything needed for joy, sorrow, suffering, and triumph. May we rest in the completeness we have in Christ, allowing Your life to overflow through us as we walk in union with You. Thank You for being our vine and for nourishing us with all we need to glorify You. In Jesus’ name, amen.