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The Path to True Abundance
We all long for a life of abundance through faith. But this kind of life doesn’t just happen, we’ve got to actively live it out.
Jesus wraps up His Sermon on the Mount with three vivid examples: two paths, two trees, and two foundations. He isn’t just giving us choices; He’s showing us the outcomes of our decisions.
First, life has two paths, but faith has only one clear answer: “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction… Narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life.” (Matthew 7:13-14) We all face decisions daily. But faith isn’t just choosing what’s comfortable, it’s a deep, personal commitment. Elijah confronted Israel’s indecision on Mount Carmel, asking clearly, “If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). Only after God visibly answered Elijah’s prayer did they declare confidently, “The LORD, He is God!” True faith means choosing God’s path, even when it feels tough or unclear.
Second, Jesus talks about two trees and teaches us discernment: “Beware of false prophets… You will know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-16) Discernment requires knowing God’s Word. Without knowledge, we’re easily swayed by emotions or smooth talkers. Elijah’s confidence to call down fire came from knowing God deeply. Similarly, we need to invest in knowing Scripture—reading, learning, and internalizing it—to see clearly and build a stable life.
Third, faith requires action: “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24) Faith isn’t passive. Real, vibrant faith grows when belief becomes action. Consider grapevines: vines in fertile soil may grow sweet fruit quickly, but it’s shallow. Mediterranean vines push through rocky, tough soil, producing grapes with richer flavors. Likewise, hardships in faith aren’t setbacks; they’re opportunities for deeper growth, giving our lives flavor and maturity.
Moses illustrates this too. Initially confident in his own strength, he failed. Only after a humbling wilderness experience did Moses truly embrace God’s calling. Our faith journey also includes moments of doubt and questions:” Who am I? Who is God? What can I do?”—but these very questions lead us closer to God.
Ultimately, abundant life isn’t measured by wealth, status, or knowledge alone. It’s defined by actively living out our faith, creating beauty and joy that bless others. Jesus reminds us that to truly “live” means moving forward, intentionally putting faith into practice every day.
May our active faith bring richness and abundance, deeply rooted and beautifully expressed: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
We warmly welcome you to our upcoming Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC). You can also join us for the Spring 2025 ESSC via online streaming.
Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Please find our church location below:
True Jesus Church
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org