“The Lord will make you abound in prosperity.”
Deuteronomy 28:11
Notes for Contemplation as You Use this Devotional:
- This passage from the Book of Deuteronomy is part of the life instruction given to the children of Israel so they may prosper and thrive.
- According to the Deuteronomist, God is our Divine Source and Provider. Therefore, God desires that all people live abundantly and assures that they will be fruitful in their ancestry and livelihood.
- Universal abundance is a form of grace, automatically given to all.This assures us that God (or the Universe) supplies all we need.
- Abundance isn’t only about what we have. It’s about our trust in the goodness of life.And this is the consciousness, the mindset, of all great spiritual masters, even if they have few possessions or minimal funds. They trust that all their daily needs are met.
- Jesus offers this teaching in many ways, including “Do not fear, for it is God’s great pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32) and “How much more will God give good gifts to those who ask?” (Matthew 7:11).
- Abundance means to have plenty, enough or more than enough, to meet our needs. Financial prosperity is only one part of abundance. Others include: time for fun, play, and rest; fulfilling work; loving relationships; meaningful service; and physical, emotional and mental well-being.
- Lack, on the other hand, relates to something limited, deficient, or needful. Again, financial insufficiency is only one aspect of this. Others may include: overwork; loss of purpose; continuous health problems; and conflicted or unhealthy relationships.
- Vassar College Associate Professor of Religion, E.H. Rick Jarow teaches in his 2005 book The Alchemy of Abundance: “Abundance is learning to trust life. It is reality lived fully — being conscious, present, and whole. . . . Abundance is also faith in the basic goodness of life. It is saying ‘yes’ to all that we can know of life — including the suffering that surrounds us. It is also saying ‘yes’ to that which we do not know, to open and accept the unknown with grace.”
Contemplation Questions:
As you reflect on your life and circumstances, ask yourself:
- What do I believe is lacking (not enough) in my life?
- List, word map, or illustrate all which applies.
- When I consider what is lacking (not enough), in what ways do I feel unworthy or undeserving of having what I need?
- List, word map, or illustrate all your feelings.
- What do I believe is abundant (enough and more than enough) in my life?
- List, word map, or illustrate all which applies.
- When I consider what is abundant (enough and more than enough), in what ways do I feel worthy and deserving of what I need?
- List, word map, or illustrate all your feelings.
- What are at least three (3) ways I feel God’s (Universal) abundance in my life now?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can.
- What are at least three (3) ways that I’m willing to trust God (the Universe) and the goodness of life more fully?
- List, word map, or illustrate all the ways you can imagine.
- What are at least three (3) ways I’m experiencing God’s grace now?
- List, word map, or illustrate everything you notice.
Take your time and be gentle with yourself as you use this devotional. Keeping an abundance mindset is part of our daily practice. So, even if we feel lacking in one way, we can focus on other ways we’re thriving. For example, if we’re overcoming an illness, we can celebrate the connection we share with loved ones.
Also, avoid making God into a capricious, domineering super-being which gives to some and withholds from others. Rather, think of God as the great loving, compassionate presence, source, substance, and sustenance of the Universe which fills all things with life and goodness, including you.
© 2022 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved.
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