Ten Steps to Spiritual Success

Tom Barnard

 

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.”

John 10:10 NLT

 

Does God want you to fail? “Absolutely not!” Does God want you to succeed? “Let me think about that.”

 

We are undivided about the first question, but the second question raises more questions than answers. We have all heard about avoiding the “name it and claim it” approach to life. But Jesus didn’t. In fact, he outlined the purpose of his coming to this planet: “My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.” The word for “fullness” may also be translated “abundance.” The context in which Jesus spoke those words to his disciples was the narrative about the Good Shepherd. In the same passage (John 10) Jesus said three things about the way the shepherd cares for his flock:

 

“He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out … he walks ahead of them.”

 

And how do the sheep respond?

 

“The sheep hear his voice and come to him … they follow him … they won’t follow a stranger ….”

 

Then he contrasts the thief’s purpose with his purpose:

 

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.”

 

Failure is not an option for the Good Shepherd. But “life in its fullness” certainly is. Then how do we discover and live this abundant life? E. Stanley Jones suggests a ten-step ladder to abundant life:

 

Consider your ways

Change your directions

Connect with Christ

Consent to surrender

Cease from struggling

Concentrate on acceptance

Cleanse your past

Christianize your relationships

Cultivate the Quiet Time

Create outlets and activities (helping others)

 

Heavenly Father, I accept your offer. I want the “fullness of life” that Jesus said he came to give. I have been far too reluctant to ask, but I am asking now. Whatever the price, I am willing to pay it. I want to hear your voice … I want to come to you … and I want to follow you. And I can’t wait any longer. I want to follow you today. Please help me make this happen. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

 

 The Stanley Jones quote can be found in two sources: The Way, and Sayings of E. Stanley Jones (Providence House Publishers, Franklin, Tennessee.)