Why Does God Say 70 Times 7? Understanding Profound Forgiveness and Its Practical Application

It’s a question that often surfaces in moments of hurt, betrayal, or when we witness the seemingly endless cycle of human conflict. A close friend, wrestling with a recurring argument with a family member, once asked me, “Why does God say 70 times 7? It feels impossible to keep forgiving someone when they keep doing the same thing over and over. Does God really expect us to have an infinite well of grace?” This sentiment, of feeling overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of what biblical forgiveness might entail, is incredibly common. The phrase “seventy times seven” immediately conjures an image of an overwhelming, perhaps even unrealistic, demand. But what does this profound biblical instruction truly mean, and how can we possibly live it out in our messy, human lives?

At its core, the answer to “Why does God say 70 times 7?” is not about counting individual acts of offense, but about embodying a spirit of boundless, unconditional forgiveness. It’s a radical departure from human tendencies towards retribution and scorekeeping. When Jesus utters these words in Matthew 18:21-22, he’s responding to Peter’s question about how many times one should forgive a brother who sins against them: “Lord, how many times shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Until seven times?” Jesus’ reply, “Not seven times, but seventy times seven,” isn’t a literal mathematical equation. Instead, it’s a symbolic expression emphasizing the limitless nature of divine forgiveness and the expectation that we, as followers, should mirror this divine attribute. It’s about cultivating a heart that doesn’t hold onto grudges, a heart that, like God’s, is quick to pardon and slow to anger.

The Context: A Parable of Unforgiveness

To truly grasp the depth of “seventy times seven,” we need to look at the surrounding narrative in Matthew 18. Immediately following Peter’s question and Jesus’ answer, Jesus tells the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23-35). This parable is crucial because it illustrates the stark contrast between God’s immense mercy towards us and our often-petty unwillingness to extend that same mercy to others.

The parable features a servant who owes his king an astronomical debt – ten thousand talents. This sum was so vast it was practically unpayable in a lifetime, representing an impossible burden, much like our sin before a holy God. When the servant pleads for more time, the king, moved by compassion, forgives the entire debt. This act of sovereign, unconditional forgiveness is a powerful metaphor for God’s grace towards humanity. We are all debtors who cannot possibly repay our spiritual debt, yet God, in His infinite love, forgives us when we turn to Him.

However, the story takes a sharp turn. This same servant, having been shown such extraordinary mercy, encounters a fellow servant who owes him a mere hundred denarii – a comparatively small sum, perhaps equivalent to a few months’ wages. Instead of showing the same compassion he received, the first servant demands full payment, refusing any extension and ultimately having his fellow servant thrown into prison until the debt is paid. This is where the unforgiving nature of the servant, and by extension, our own human tendency, is laid bare.

The king, upon hearing of the first servant’s cruelty, is furious. He revokes his forgiveness, stating, “Should not you also have had mercy on your fellow servant, in the same way that I had mercy on you?” The servant is then handed over to the torturers until he can repay his entire debt – an impossibility. Jesus concludes the parable with a sobering warning: “So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”

This parable is the ultimate explainer for why God says 70 times 7. It’s not about the number itself, but about the principle it represents: if God, in His infinite mercy, forgives our insurmountable debts, how can we, His recipients of grace, refuse to forgive the much smaller offenses of our brothers and sisters? The act of forgiving seventy times seven is a reflection of the overwhelming forgiveness we have received. It’s a testament to the transformative power of God’s love and a call to live out that love in our interactions.

The Mathematical Symbolism of 70 x 7

While the number isn’t meant to be a literal count, understanding its potential symbolic meaning can deepen our appreciation. In ancient Hebrew thought, numbers often carried symbolic weight. The number seven frequently represented completeness, perfection, or divine action. For instance, God rested on the seventh day, signifying the completion of creation. Multiplying seven by itself often amplified this sense of completeness or fullness.

Seventy, another significant number in the Bible, can represent a full measure of something. The Israelites were in exile in Babylon for seventy years, a complete period of judgment. The seventy elders appointed by Moses also represent a complete council. Therefore, “seventy times seven” could be interpreted as “seventy sevens,” or “seventy complete cycles of seven.” This suggests an exhaustive, comprehensive, and utterly complete act of forgiveness, far beyond any limited human capacity for tallying wrongs.

It’s not just about forgiving seven times, or even seventy times. It’s about reaching a point where the act of forgiveness is no longer a conscious, effortful decision tied to a specific count, but an ingrained disposition of the heart. It’s about reaching a state of complete, overflowing, and perpetual forgiveness, mirroring the divine character. The sheer magnitude of the number emphasizes that there should be no limit to our forgiveness, that it should be as boundless as God’s own mercy.

Why is Unconditional Forgiveness So Crucial?

The instruction to forgive “seventy times seven” isn’t just a lofty ideal; it has profound practical implications for our spiritual well-being, our relationships, and our very understanding of God. Here’s why this level of forgiveness is so crucial:

It Reflects God’s Nature: As mentioned, Jesus’ teaching is rooted in the concept of God’s own boundless forgiveness. When we forgive others, we are essentially mirroring the character of our Creator. This is a cornerstone of Christian discipleship – to become more like Christ in all aspects of our lives, and forgiveness is a key attribute of His.
It Frees Us From Bitterness: Holding onto grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. Unforgiveness festers, corrupting our own spirit, leading to bitterness, resentment, anger, and even physical ailments. When we choose to forgive, we are choosing freedom from these destructive emotions. It’s not about condoning the wrong; it’s about releasing ourselves from the emotional prison that unforgiveness creates.
It Heals Relationships: While it may seem counterintuitive, genuine forgiveness is often the pathway to healing and reconciliation in relationships. When offenses occur, if they are not addressed with forgiveness, they can create deep rifts. Forgiveness, when offered with sincerity, opens the door for understanding, restoration, and stronger bonds. It doesn’t mean forgetting or pretending the hurt didn’t happen, but rather choosing to let go of the desire for revenge or retribution.
It Enables Our Own Spiritual Growth: Our ability to receive God’s forgiveness is directly tied to our willingness to forgive others. Jesus makes this connection explicit in the Lord’s Prayer: “and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). This isn’t a transactional exchange, but a recognition that our hearts are shaped by our actions. If we refuse to extend grace, it can harden our hearts, making it harder to receive and experience God’s grace fully.
It Counters the Cycle of Retaliation: So much conflict, both on a personal and global scale, stems from a cycle of offense and retaliation. One wrong leads to another, escalating into a destructive pattern. Jesus’ teaching on seventy times seven is a radical call to break this cycle, to be the one who interrupts the chain of hurt by choosing forgiveness, even when it’s difficult or seems undeserved.
It Cultivates Humility: Recognizing that we ourselves are flawed, have sinned, and have been forgiven by God fosters a spirit of humility. This humility makes it easier to extend grace to others, acknowledging that they too are imperfect beings who, like us, need mercy.

From my own experiences, I’ve seen firsthand how holding onto a grievance can weigh a person down. It’s like carrying a backpack filled with stones, and with every memory of the offense, you add another stone. Eventually, you can barely move. Forgiveness, while initially feeling like a surrender, is actually an act of incredible strength and self-preservation. It’s about reclaiming your own peace and joy by choosing not to let another person’s actions continue to define your emotional state.

The Nuance: What “Forgiveness” Does NOT Mean

It’s vital to clarify what “seventy times seven” forgiveness *doesn’t* entail. The instruction is profound, but it’s not naive or a call for foolishness. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for applying this teaching practically and healthily.

It Doesn’t Mean Forgetting: Forgiveness isn’t about amnesia. You don’t have to forget the offense. Remembering can be important for learning, for growth, and for setting boundaries. However, what you do with the memory is key. Forgiveness means choosing not to dwell on the hurt, not to let it define your present or future, and not to hold onto the desire for revenge.
It Doesn’t Mean Excusing the Behavior: Forgiveness is not about saying the offense was okay or acceptable. It’s about releasing the offender from your judgment and desire for retribution. It doesn’t mean you have to pretend the wrong didn’t happen or that it didn’t hurt.
It Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Reconciliation: Reconciliation is a two-way street. It requires both parties to be willing to work towards restoring the relationship. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is a unilateral act of the forgiver. You can forgive someone wholeheartedly, but that doesn’t automatically mean the relationship can or should be fully restored, especially if the harmful behavior continues.
It Doesn’t Mean Abandoning Boundaries: This is perhaps the most misunderstood aspect. Forgiveness does not mean you have to allow yourself to be continually harmed or abused. Healthy boundaries are essential for self-protection and for maintaining respectful relationships. You can forgive someone for past hurts while still establishing clear boundaries to prevent future harm. For example, you can forgive a friend for habitually borrowing money and not repaying it, but that doesn’t mean you have to continue lending them money if they haven’t changed their behavior.
It’s Not About Your Feelings: True forgiveness is often a choice of the will, not just an emotion. You might not *feel* like forgiving, especially when the wound is fresh or the offense is severe. However, the act of choosing to forgive, even when emotions are difficult, is where the real power lies. The feelings often follow the choice.

I remember a situation years ago where a colleague consistently undermined my work. It was incredibly frustrating and damaging to my professional standing. My initial reaction was anger and a desire to retaliate. But after wrestling with Jesus’ words about forgiveness, I realized that harboring that anger was only hurting me. I made the conscious decision to forgive him, not because he deserved it or apologized, but because *I* needed to be free from the resentment. This didn’t mean I suddenly trusted him or sought out his company; rather, it meant I stopped letting his actions dictate my emotional state. I maintained professional distance and ensured my work was impeccable, but the internal turmoil ceased.

Practical Steps to Practicing “Seventy Times Seven” Forgiveness

So, how does one actually implement such a radical concept in daily life? It’s a process, a journey, and it requires intentionality. Here’s a breakdown of steps and approaches:

1. Recognize the Depth of Your Own Forgiveness

Before you can offer forgiveness, you must grasp the immensity of the forgiveness you have received from God. Reflect on your own sins, your failures, and the times you have fallen short. Consider the spiritual debt you owed before God’s grace. This self-awareness is the bedrock of genuine empathy for others.

2. Shift Your Perspective from Scorekeeping to Compassion

Actively resist the urge to count offenses. When you find yourself mentally tallying wrongs, pause and redirect your thoughts. Ask yourself: “What would compassion look like here?” Try to see the other person not just as an offender, but as a flawed human being, perhaps struggling with their own issues or pain.

3. Pray for the Offender

This can be one of the hardest steps, but it is also one of the most transformative. Jesus Himself commanded us to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). Praying for the person who hurt you, even if it starts as a reluctant, rote prayer, can begin to soften your heart and foster a genuine desire for their well-being. It shifts your focus from your own hurt to a broader, more Christ-like perspective.

4. Choose to Release Them

Forgiveness is an act of will. It’s a decision to release the person from your judgment and your claim for retribution. This doesn’t mean you have to communicate this release to them directly, especially if it’s unsafe or unhealthy. It’s primarily an internal process of letting go.

5. Set Healthy Boundaries

As discussed, forgiveness does not mean opening yourself up to further harm. After forgiving, assess the situation and determine what boundaries are necessary to protect yourself emotionally, physically, and spiritually. This might mean limiting contact, changing the nature of your interaction, or even severing ties if the relationship is persistently destructive. Boundaries are not acts of unforgiveness; they are acts of self-care and wisdom.

6. Practice Empathy and Understanding (Where Possible)

Try to understand the offender’s perspective, not to excuse their actions, but to gain insight. What might have led them to behave that way? Were they acting out of pain, fear, ignorance, or brokenness? This doesn’t absolve them, but it can demystify their actions and make it easier to extend grace.

7. Be Patient with Yourself and the Process

Forgiveness is not a one-time event, especially for deep wounds. There will be times when the hurt resurfaces. This is normal. The goal is not perfection, but progress. Each time you choose to forgive again, even when the feelings are difficult, you are strengthening your capacity for grace.

8. Seek Support When Needed

If you are struggling with a particularly difficult situation or a pattern of abuse, don’t try to go it alone. Seek counsel from trusted spiritual leaders, mentors, or professional counselors. They can offer guidance, support, and tools to help you navigate the complexities of forgiveness and boundary-setting.

The Role of Forgiveness in Different Relationships

The principle of “seventy times seven” applies across the spectrum of our relationships, though the application might vary in its expression.

Family Dynamics

Family relationships are often the most complex and deeply ingrained. We grow up with family members, sharing a history that can be filled with both immense love and deep hurts. The recurring offenses within families – sibling rivalries, parental criticism, unmet expectations – can feel particularly painful because they come from those closest to us. Applying seventy times seven here means:

Willingness to overlook minor annoyances and repeated habits that aren’t truly harmful.
Choosing to address significant issues with grace rather than accusation, seeking understanding before judgment.
Recognizing that family members are often operating from patterns established long ago, and while not excusing behavior, it can foster patience.
The challenge often lies in distinguishing between a recurring offense that needs a boundary and an ongoing unhealthy dynamic that requires different strategies.

Friendships

Friendships are built on trust and mutual respect. When a friend betrays that trust or consistently disappoints, it can be devastating. However, the nature of friendship also allows for a certain level of understanding and grace. Practicing seventy times seven in friendships might involve:

Giving friends the benefit of the doubt, especially for unintentional slights.
Being willing to overlook minor forgetfulness or social missteps.
Openly and gently communicating when a boundary has been crossed, rather than letting resentment build.
Understanding that friends are imperfect and may repeat mistakes, requiring ongoing grace.

Marital Relationships

Marriage is often described as the ultimate partnership, and with it comes the highest expectation of grace and forgiveness. Couples will inevitably hurt each other, sometimes deeply. The “seventy times seven” principle is vital for marital health. It means:

A commitment to constantly renewing vows of love and forgiveness, even after significant offenses.
Actively choosing to forgive daily, rather than accumulating a list of grievances.
Understanding that intimacy requires vulnerability, and vulnerability opens one up to being hurt, necessitating a readiness to forgive.
Working through conflicts with the understanding that the goal is not to win, but to maintain the bond of unity.

Workplace Interactions

While professional environments may not demand the same depth of emotional intimacy as personal relationships, the principle of forgiveness is still applicable. It can foster a more positive and productive atmosphere.

Overlooking minor errors or miscommunications that don’t have significant consequences.
Choosing not to hold grudges against colleagues who may have made mistakes or acted selfishly.
Focusing on collaborative problem-solving rather than blame.
This is also where boundaries are particularly crucial. You can forgive a colleague for a mistake that impacted your work, but you must still implement processes to prevent it from happening again.

Interactions with Strangers and Society

Even in our interactions with those we don’t know well – the person who cuts you off in traffic, the cashier who is rude, the online commenter who is hateful – the spirit of “seventy times seven” can guide our reactions. It encourages us to:

Resist the urge to retaliate or engage in anger.
Assume the best rather than the worst about unknown motivations.
Recognize that everyone is fighting a battle we know nothing about.
This doesn’t mean tolerating injustice or harmful behavior on a larger scale, but it can influence our personal demeanor and responses.

Theological Underpinnings: Grace, Mercy, and Justice

Understanding “seventy times seven” requires a brief look at related theological concepts: grace, mercy, and justice.

Grace: Grace is unmerited favor. It’s God giving us what we don’t deserve. Our salvation is by grace, a gift freely given despite our sinfulness. Forgiveness is a direct outflow of this grace.
Mercy: Mercy is withholding deserved punishment. It’s God’s compassion and kindness in the face of our sin and suffering. When we forgive, we are extending mercy, choosing not to exact the punishment that the offense might seem to warrant.
Justice: Justice, in a biblical context, is about restoring what is right and true. It’s not merely retribution but a restoration of balance. While forgiveness is not the same as justice, a truly just society and individual lives incorporate both accountability and the opportunity for restoration through forgiveness. God is both just and merciful. He doesn’t simply overlook sin; He provides a way for it to be dealt with through Christ’s sacrifice, thereby upholding justice while offering mercy. Our forgiveness of others should align with this understanding, seeking what is right while extending grace.

When we struggle with the command to forgive seventy times seven, it’s often because we feel the injustice of the offense so keenly. We want justice to be served. However, the biblical model suggests that our role is not to be the ultimate judge or punisher, but to be channels of God’s grace and mercy, trusting that He will ultimately uphold justice.

Common Objections and Counterarguments

It’s natural to have reservations or objections to such a demanding command. Here are some common ones and how they can be addressed:

Objection: “It’s not fair! Why should I forgive someone who doesn’t deserve it?”

Answer: This is precisely the point. Forgiveness isn’t about fairness or the offender’s worthiness. It’s about the forgiver’s freedom and their desire to emulate God. God’s forgiveness of us wasn’t based on our merit; it was based on His character. If we only forgave those who “deserved” it, we would rarely forgive anyone, as our own sinfulness demonstrates that none of us truly deserve grace. The command is a call to an act of faith and obedience, not a reward for the offender.

Objection: “If I forgive them, they’ll just do it again!”

Answer: This is where the distinction between forgiveness and reconciliation, and the necessity of boundaries, becomes critical. Forgiveness is an internal act of releasing the offender from your condemnation. It doesn’t obligate you to restore the relationship to its previous state or to remain vulnerable to repeated harm. You can forgive someone and still implement strong boundaries to protect yourself. If the behavior continues, you have the right and responsibility to limit your exposure to it. However, the act of forgiveness itself can sometimes be a catalyst for change in the offender, though that should never be the *reason* for our forgiveness.

Objection: “The hurt was too severe. I can’t possibly forgive something like that.”

Answer: This is understandable. Deep wounds require deep healing, and forgiveness is a part of that healing process. It’s not about pretending the severity of the hurt doesn’t exist. It’s about choosing to move forward, to not let the past trauma dictate your present and future. It may require significant time, prayer, and potentially professional help. Remember, God’s grace is sufficient, and He provides the strength and power to forgive even the most grievous offenses. It’s not about our ability, but about His enabling power through us.

Objection: “Doesn’t God Himself punish evildoers? Shouldn’t I want justice?”

Answer: Yes, the Bible speaks of God’s justice and righteous judgment. However, our role is not to be the dispenser of that judgment. We are called to forgive, to love our enemies, and to leave vengeance to God. Vengeance is His, as stated in Romans 12:19. While we should advocate for justice in society and hold people accountable, our personal response to those who wrong us is to forgive. This doesn’t negate the reality of justice, but it redefines our personal participation in it. God’s justice is perfect; human attempts at vengeance are often flawed and destructive.

Frequently Asked Questions About “Seventy Times Seven”

How can I genuinely forgive someone when I still feel so angry and hurt?

This is a very common and valid question. The key here is understanding that forgiveness is not primarily an emotional state but an act of the will. It’s a decision you make. You don’t have to *feel* forgiving to *be* forgiving.

Start with what you can do. Begin by praying for the person, even if it’s just a simple, “God, help me to forgive [name].” You can also pray for God to reveal His perspective on the situation, or to soften your heart. Ask God to show you the offender’s own struggles or pain, not to excuse their actions, but to foster empathy.

Often, the feelings of anger and hurt will lessen over time as you consistently choose the act of forgiveness. It’s a process, not an instantaneous switch. Be patient with yourself. Some days will be harder than others. Acknowledge the ongoing struggle, but recommit to the decision to forgive. Remember the immense forgiveness you have received from God; this can be a powerful motivator to extend that grace to others.

Why is it so hard to forgive when the other person never apologizes or shows remorse?

It is undeniably harder to forgive when the offender doesn’t acknowledge their wrongdoing or express remorse. Our human inclination is to want the other person to understand the pain they’ve caused and to make amends. Without that, it can feel like the hurt is being dismissed or that our pain is invalid.

However, the biblical teaching on “seventy times seven” is not conditional on the offender’s repentance. Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant highlights this: the king forgave the servant *before* he himself had shown mercy to his own debtors. Similarly, we are called to forgive because of God’s forgiveness toward us, not because the other person has earned it.

When there’s no apology, forgiveness becomes primarily an act of self-liberation. You are releasing *yourself* from the burden of bitterness and resentment, not necessarily signaling to the offender that their actions were acceptable. You are choosing to break the cycle of hurt for your own spiritual and emotional well-being. This doesn’t mean you have to reconcile or trust them, but you can let go of the hold their actions have on you. It requires a profound trust in God to handle the ultimate justice and vindication.

What’s the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation?

This is a crucial distinction that many people struggle with. Forgiveness is a unilateral act of the heart. It is your decision to release another person from your judgment and your desire for retribution. It is an internal process that you control. You can forgive someone at any moment, regardless of their actions or willingness to change.

Reconciliation, on the other hand, is a bilateral process. It involves two or more parties actively working together to restore a broken relationship. Reconciliation requires mutual trust, repentance, and a commitment to change and accountability from both sides. It is a relational goal, not an individual decree.

Therefore, you can forgive someone without reconciling with them. For example, if someone has repeatedly harmed you and shown no sign of changing, you can forgive them and release them from your condemnation, but you must also establish firm boundaries and may choose not to engage in a close relationship with them. Forgiveness is about setting yourself free; reconciliation is about restoring a relationship. They can and often should go hand-in-hand, but forgiveness is the prerequisite, and reconciliation is the potential outcome, not a guaranteed one.

Does “seventy times seven” mean I should never hold anyone accountable for their actions?

Absolutely not. Holding someone accountable is not the same as refusing to forgive. In fact, true accountability often requires a foundation of forgiveness. When we forgive, we are free from the need to retaliate or to seek vengeance. This allows us to approach accountability from a place of love and concern for what is right, rather than from anger or bitterness.

Accountability involves helping individuals recognize the consequences of their actions and encouraging them to make amends or change their behavior. This can take many forms: gentle correction, setting boundaries, imposing consequences (like in a judicial system or parental discipline), or even helping someone seek professional help. The goal of accountability is often restoration and growth, not merely punishment.

Jesus Himself spoke of accountability. He also provided a framework for confronting sin within the church, which involved steps leading to accountability (Matthew 18:15-17). The principle of “seventy times seven” guides our *attitude* and our *readiness* to forgive, but it doesn’t negate the need for justice, responsibility, or boundaries in relationships and society.

How can I start practicing forgiveness if I have a long history of holding grudges?

Starting the practice of forgiveness when you have a history of holding grudges can feel like climbing a mountain. It requires consistent effort and a shift in mindset. Here’s a practical approach:

1. Start Small: Don’t try to tackle your biggest, most painful offenses first. Begin with smaller irritations or minor slights. Practice forgiving the person who consistently parks poorly, or the acquaintance who often forgets your name. Small victories build confidence and capacity.

2. Focus on the “Why”: Regularly remind yourself *why* you are doing this. Revisit the parable of the unforgiving servant and Jesus’ teachings on God’s boundless mercy. Reflect on the freedom that forgiveness offers *you*.

3. Make it a Habitual Prayer: Dedicate a few minutes each day to praying for those you have difficulty forgiving. Even if it’s just to say, “God, I choose to forgive [person] for [offense], even though it’s hard.” Consistency is key.

4. Journal Your Progress: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly helpful. You can journal about the offenses, your feelings, and your decision to forgive. Seeing your progress on paper can be encouraging.

5. Seek Community: Talk to trusted friends, mentors, or a pastor about your struggles. Hearing their experiences and receiving encouragement can make a significant difference. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in the struggle is half the battle.

6. Be Kind to Yourself: Recognize that this is a journey. There will be setbacks. You might feel like you’re back at square one. That’s okay. Pick yourself up, recommit to the decision to forgive, and keep moving forward. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

The Enduring Power of a Forgiving Heart

The instruction for God to say “seventy times seven” is more than just a number; it’s a blueprint for a transformed life. It’s a call to embody the radical, unconditional love that God has shown us. It’s a challenge to break free from the chains of bitterness and resentment, and to live lives that reflect the boundless mercy of our Creator.

Living out this principle will undoubtedly be challenging. There will be moments of doubt, pain, and resistance. But the reward – a heart at peace, relationships that can heal and grow, and a life lived in closer alignment with the divine – is immeasurable. By embracing the spirit of “seventy times seven,” we don’t just become better people; we become vessels of God’s transformative grace in a world desperately in need of it. It’s a journey of faith, a testament to love, and the ultimate expression of spiritual maturity.

In essence, why does God say 70 times 7? Because He knows that our capacity for hurt is great, but His capacity for mercy is infinitely greater. He calls us to reflect that divine capacity, not as a burdensome obligation, but as the pathway to true freedom and abundant life.