Does the abundant life mean always being happy or having great circumstances?
No. The abundant life does not mean always being happy, nor does it mean always having great circumstances. It is a joy that remains regardless of circumstances, rooted in redemption, eternal life, the hope of glory, and constant access to God through prayer.
Les teaches that the abundant life Christ promised for this earthly sojourn is not defined by constant happiness or ideal circumstances. He says it may not always be happiness, and our circumstances may not always be the greatest, but the joy is there. Regardless of circumstances, believers have the joy Paul speaks of, the same joy Paul expressed in Philippians while in the dungeon, shipwreck, in the water, and under scourging. The abundant life is not having two Cadillacs in the garage or the biggest house in town. It is that we have been redeemed, have eternal life, have the hope of glory, have the assurance that He knows all about us, and have access into the throne room of heaven, so we can pray at any time, any place.
More Questions
Is the abundant life always happiness and good circumstances?
The abundant life is not always a life of happiness or great circumstances, but joy is present regardless of circumstances, the joy Paul speaks of in Philippians.