Thrive is a constructive and fertile word. It denotes growth as well as flourish. It means to grow prosperously. To grow wonderfully well.
So the opposite of thrive is either no growth at all or malnourished.
Ps:52:7&8 draws this same contrast in a beautiful way.
Thriving actually happens in the presence of God - growing in trust in His unfailing love. While shriveling is when you grow in wickedness or growing in the standards of this world.
Living ordinary lives, just surviving or existing, just going with the current is not what you are meant to live. But to thrive. To flourish. Let your roots go deep, searching for the living waters. Dig deep into His word. Be immersed in His love. Be sure of your identity in Christ, not having to prove to others. Assured of your position in Him. Act like your Father. That is how you thrive. This is life in its fullness, abundance which He has promised.
Just surviving is in contrast being tossed about the opinion of every Tom, Dick and Harry, trying to please your peers. Trying to include into their gang. Trying to prove your worth. Struggling to be dual.
Casting Crowns has penned it down beautifully.....
Here in this worn and weary land
Where many a dream has died
Like a tree planted by the water
We never will run dry
So living water flowing through
God, we thirst for more of You
Fill our hearts and flood our souls with one desire
Just to know You and to make You known
We lift Your name on high
Shine like the sun, make darkness run and hide
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
It's time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
🙏
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