Abiding in Him

“So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” 1 John 4:16 ESV

“If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God, you’ll be at rest.” Corrie ten Boom

Abide. It may be a quiet voice that says, “Not yet.” “You’re doing well.” “Talk to me.” “Talk to this person.” “I love you.”

Remain. Rest in Him. Trust his plan. Let go and let God.

When he was little, my son had chicken pox, so no playing outside, no play date, lots of baths with Epsom salts.  He was content reading a book, playing with toys, while I fixed dinner and put some medicine on his itchy spots. He was abiding with me, though we didn’t talk much. We just enjoyed being with each other, even though he was ill. Just being present was enough. Abiding.

We were still active, I with my chores and nursing him, he with reading and playing with his cars, trusting that the illness would pass. We were content and at peace. Abiding. Trusting that Jesus will heal.

Musings

Until I have a relationship with the Father through his Son, I’m not abiding. I’m going on my limited strength, and it’s exhausting! The Father wants a relationship with you and me. He wants us to abide in Him. The more intimate, the more real we become, the more fruit for our lives, others, and the Father’s Kingdom.

Prayer

Dear Father,

We thank you for your constant presence in our lives and the intimate relationships we have with you. Remind us that striving, fixing, earning, worrying, and approval-seeking are going in our strength and not abiding in your presence. Help us to abide in Your presence with contentment, thankfulness, and peace.

Amen.