The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. John 10:10, AMP
Have you ever had a student who refused your help, no matter how much you cared, encouraged, or supported them? Maybe you could see their potential so clearly, yet they couldn’t see it for themselves. You watched them struggle, knowing your help could make a difference, but they just wouldn’t accept it.
If you’ve ever felt that heartbreak, imagine how God must feel when we resist His help. He stands ready to strengthen, restore, and fill us with joy, yet sometimes we choose to manage life on our own. We might not be rebelling outright. We’re simply weary, uncertain, or afraid to fail again.
Jesus’ promise in John 10:10 reminds us that He came to give us an abundant life—not just survival, but fullness. That’s God’s desire for each of us. But abundance doesn’t mean ease, wealth, or perfection. It means a life overflowing with His presence—peace that quiets fear, joy that sustains us through hard days, and rest that renews our weary hearts.
As educators, we pour ourselves out daily. We give and give, sometimes feeling there’s little left to receive. Yet Jesus gently reminds us that abundance isn’t achieved by doing more, but by abiding more and drawing close to Him. It’s when we let the Holy Spirit teach, comfort, and guide us that His fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—begins to grow in us and overflow to those we serve (Galatians 5:22–23).
Maybe you’ve been striving to make it through another day or lesson, feeling like your joy has run dry. Take heart. Abundance isn’t lost. It’s offered anew every morning. Jesus stands ready to fill you again, not just so you can survive, but so you can thrive in His strength and share His love with those in your classroom and beyond.
Let’s not be like the student who refuses help. Let’s be the teachers—and followers—who receive it with open hands and grateful hearts.
Lord Jesus, thank You for offering a life filled with Your peace, joy, and presence. Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to do it all in my own strength. Teach me to rest in You and receive the abundance You promise. Fill me with Your Spirit so that love, patience, and kindness overflow to my students and colleagues. Help me live each day as a reflection of Your abundant grace. In Your name, Amen.
Copyright Dr. Jackie Minor.
Dr. Jackie Minor is the Director of Victorious Educator Ministries and the author of the newly released book: Taking Jesus to School: The Fruit of the Spirit on Display. You can connect with her or learn more at www.victoriouseducator.com.
