The word abide has great meaning for Christians. To abide means to submit or carry something out, it is to stay with and commit to a decision, to stand fast, remain, reside and continue without change. The Apostle Paul put this concept into a wonderful statement in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” This truly expresses the meaning of the idea of abiding in Jesus. In essence, we submit so deeply, stand so surely, commit so completely, that the person we become is no longer that old selfish creature but a new creation transformed into the image of the perfect Son of God!
The transformation of our thinking and behavior as we abide in Christ has wonderful benefits. Romans 12:2 assures us that this change of mind will allow us to “….prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Confusion is gone! Doubts disappear! Freedom reigns! We will now be equipped through Christ to make good decisions in our lives. We will be able to face our fears, release our anxieties and walk in newness of life! And this is not all.
Abiding in Jesus brings special purpose to our daily lives. In John 15:5 Jesus makes this statement: “ I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit…” Many today have to work long hours at unfulfilling jobs to make ends meet. How wonderful that God has given us a mission, a purpose beyond our daily labors. He has not only provided a transformed character by giving us the spiritual fruit of His divine nature (Gal. 5:22ff), he has also rewarded us with the blessing of leading souls into His eternal Kingdom!
Abiding in Christ also awakens our prayer life as we dwell daily in His word. (John 15:7) We will know how to pray within God’s will and grow in our trust and faith as He answers us according to His eternal plan and purpose for our lives. This is truly thrilling!
Finally, abiding in Jesus has an eternal benefit as well. As we continue steadfastly in Christ we have a promise given us by God our Father. 1 John 2:17 states: “…the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God ABIDES forever.” Let us remain faithful to abide in Christ today, tomorrow and throughout eternity!
Submitted by Laura Dayton