Overabundance
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Definition and Context:
Overabundance refers to an excessive quantity or supply of something, often more than is needed or can be managed. In a biblical context, overabundance can relate to material wealth, resources, or blessings. The Bible addresses the concept of overabundance in various ways, highlighting both the blessings and potential pitfalls associated with it.

Biblical References:

1. Material Wealth and Prosperity:
The Bible often speaks of material wealth as a blessing from God, yet it also warns against the dangers of overabundance leading to pride or a false sense of security. In Deuteronomy 8:17-18 , God warns the Israelites, "You may say in your heart, 'The power and strength of my hands have made this wealth for me.' But remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth, that He may confirm His covenant that He swore to your fathers, as it is this day."

2. Parable of the Rich Fool:
Jesus addresses the issue of overabundance in the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21). The rich man, having an abundant harvest, decides to build larger barns to store his surplus. However, God says to him, "You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?" This parable illustrates the futility of hoarding wealth without being "rich toward God."

3. Warnings Against Greed:
The Bible frequently warns against greed and the love of money, which can accompany overabundance. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10 , Paul writes, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil."

4. God’s Provision and Contentment:
Scripture encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to be content with what they have. Philippians 4:11-12 states, "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need."

5. Generosity and Stewardship:
The Bible calls for generosity and wise stewardship of resources. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 , Paul encourages believers, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

Theological Implications:

· Blessings and Responsibilities:
Overabundance is seen as a blessing from God, but it comes with responsibilities. Believers are called to use their resources to glorify God and serve others, recognizing that all they have is ultimately from Him.

· Spiritual Dangers:
The Bible warns that overabundance can lead to spiritual complacency, self-reliance, and a diminished reliance on God. It is crucial for believers to maintain a heart of gratitude and dependence on God, regardless of their material circumstances.

· Eternal Perspective:
Christians are encouraged to maintain an eternal perspective, valuing spiritual riches over earthly wealth. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21 , "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

In summary, while overabundance can be a sign of God's blessing, it requires careful stewardship and a heart aligned with God's purposes to avoid the spiritual pitfalls it may bring.
Library

Book vii. On the Useful or the Ordinary
... The same in Solomon: finding honey, eat as much as is enough, lest you vomit in
overabundance, that is, lest you seek what is too great for you. ...
/.../eucherius/the formulae of st eucherius of lyons/book vii on the useful.htm

Thesaurus
Overabundance (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Overabundance (2 Occurrences). Matthew 13:12 for
whoever hath, it shall be given to him, and he shall have ...
/o/overabundance.htm - 7k

Over-abundant (2 Occurrences)
Over-abundant. Overabundance, Over-abundant. Over-against . Multi-Version
Concordance ... Overabundance, Over-abundant. Over-against . Reference Bible.
/o/over-abundant.htm - 7k

Over-abounded (1 Occurrence)
Over-abounded. Overabounded, Over-abounded. Overabundance . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (DBY). Overabounded, Over-abounded. Overabundance . Reference Bible
/o/over-abounded.htm - 6k

Resources
Does the Bible say anything about insomnia? | GotQuestions.org

Overabundance: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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Concordance
Overabundance (2 Occurrences)

Matthew 13:12
for whoever hath, it shall be given to him, and he shall have overabundance, and whoever hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken from him.
(YLT)

Matthew 25:29
for to every one having shall be given, and he shall have overabundance, and from him who is not having, even that which he hath shall be taken from him;
(WBS)

Subtopics

Overabundance

Related Terms

Overwhelmed (33 Occurrences)

Overabundance (2 Occurrences)

Abundant (124 Occurrences)

Abundantly (73 Occurrences)

Over-against (156 Occurrences)

Forefathers (135 Occurrences)

Over-abounded
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