“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:
I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
— John 10:10 (KJV)
John 10:10 is one of those verses that hits straight at the heart of what life with Jesus is really about. It reminds us that there are two plans fighting for our lives:
- One plan wants to steal, kill, and destroy.
- The other wants to give us life—real, deep, abundant life.
For a lot of us, that “thief” doesn’t show up with a pitchfork and horns. It sneaks in as addiction, depression, anxiety, shame, toxic relationships, bad habits, or that little voice that whispers, “You’ll never change…why even try?” Those are the things that drain us, numb us, and pull us farther from who God created us to be.
But Jesus doesn’t just come to give us survival.
He comes to give us abundance.
Abundant life isn’t perfect circumstances. It doesn’t mean no struggles, no bills, no drama, no mental health battles. It means:
- Peace in the middle of the storm, even when your thoughts are loud.
- Hope when the past screams failure, but God keeps saying, “I’m not done with you yet.”
- Purpose, even when you feel stuck in the same routine.
- Love and grace, even when you feel unworthy of both.
If we’re honest, some days it feels easier to believe the thief than to believe Jesus. The thief says, “You are your mistakes.” Jesus says, “You are Mine.”
The thief reminds you of every failure. Jesus reminds you of the cross.
How This Looks Today
You don’t have to fix your whole life in one day to live this verse out. Abundant life often shows up in small, quiet choices:
- Choosing to pray instead of numbing out.
- Going to therapy or a meeting instead of isolating.
- Reaching out to a friend or family member instead of pretending you’re “fine.”
- Opening your Bible or devotional instead of scrolling your brain away.
Every time you choose life over destruction, even in a tiny way, you’re agreeing with what Jesus said in John 10:10:
“I came so you could truly live.”
A Simple Prayer
Lord, thank You that You came to give me life, and life more abundantly.
Show me where the enemy has been stealing my joy, my peace, and my purpose.
Help me choose You today—in my thoughts, my actions, and my attitude.
I may not have it all together, but I’m thankful that You’re not finished with me yet.
Amen.
If today feels heavy, remember: the thief may come to steal, kill, and destroy—but Jesus came to restore, rebuild, and revive. You are not stuck with the enemy’s plan for your life. In Christ, you have a better one.
You’re not alone in this.
— Josh Bridges
YOU {R} NOT ALONE YOU HAVE A VOICE! 