Abundant Life in the #NoPlaceLeft North American Network

by David Miller

Recently I asked a few hundred people within the North American NoPlaceLeft network to tell me their understanding of abundant life. With a little help from AI, I summarized the responses. Here is the wisdom of following Jesus from on the ground practitioners who are laboring to multiply disciples and churches.

Abundant Life Defined:

1. Relationship with God:

• Life begins and thrives in communion with Jesus (John 17:3).

• It is marked by knowing God intimately, hearing His voice, and living in His presence.

2. Purpose and Obedience:

• Abundant life involves walking in the good works prepared by God (Ephesians 2:10) with joy and surrender.

• Obedience to God’s voice and alignment with His will are central.

3. Spiritual Vitality:

• Overflowing with the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

• A life marked by perseverance, hope, and eternal perspective even through suffering and trials.

4. Multiplication and Community:

• Discipleship and generational multiplication: seeing spiritual children grow into parents and grandparents.

• Flourishing in spiritual family and unified relationships, reflecting God’s Kingdom.

5. Freedom from Scarcity:

• Trust in God’s provision, living free from greed or attachment to material wealth (Luke 12:15-21).

• Recognizing that true abundance is spiritual, not material.

6. Kingdom Mindset:

• Experiencing the “already but not yet” Kingdom of God on earth.

• Living moment by moment under the lordship of Jesus, aligned with His mission.

7. Joy and Gratitude:

• Fighting for joy through thankfulness and contentment in Christ.

• Recognizing that in Him, we have everything we need, and apart from Him, we have nothing.

Biblical Anchors:

• John 10:10: Abundant life is found in Jesus, transcending material wealth or ease.

• Psalm 23:5: A life where “my cup overflows” reflects God’s generous provision and care.

• Matthew 22:37-40 & 28:18-20: Relational abundance—love for God, neighbors, and making disciples.

• Genesis 1 & 9: The idea of abundance tied to fruitfulness and multiplication.

• Luke 12:15-21: A warning against equating abundance with earthly possessions.

The Essence of Abundant Life:

• A life anchored in Christ, overflowing with spiritual richness, and marked by joy, purpose, and relational depth.

• It is not a life without challenges but one of perseverance and eternal hope.

• Abundant life transforms individuals, families, and communities, reflecting God’s glory on earth.

Be encouraged in your abundant life in Christ today!