As I was reading through John chapter 15, the word “abide” really stood out to me. It is used 11 times in the first 17 verses of the chapter. I would have to say, that this means it’s probably pretty important.
The definition of the word abide is to live in, or dwell in and to act in accordance with. Some of the synonyms include : obey, follow, respect, uphold, conform to, and remain in.
I encourage you to read John chapter 15 and think about the definition of the word abide as you read. It gives you a better perspective of how we as christians should be living.
” Abide in me [Jesus] and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” John 15:4
Spending time with God, and connecting with him should be daily priority. It’s when we are in him that he can use us for his kingdom. When we abide in him, we bear fruit and are productive. Apart from him, we are useless. Fruit won’t grow if it isn’t connected to the vine. We need to dwell with God to receive the strength to not only grow in our own faith, but to cause others to grow as well.
It’s my constant prayer that I will continue to abide in God as I prepare to launch in August. I want to bear fruit and be used for God in big ways. Life has a way of distracting us from God and the things that he wants us to do. When I get busy, stressed and anxious, I need to remember to abide in him. To anchor myself in his word so that I can stand firm against the distractions thrown my way.
Always Remember:
God chose you
He wanted you
He appointed you
He set you where you are
Abide in him.
-Ashley
