In the last devotion, we discovered the word “abide” means to dwell and we all love the thought of God indwelling us through the Holy Spirit. Let’s look at another meaning of the word “abide”, which is to “accept or act in accordance with”, usually pertaining to a rule, decision or recommendation. OK, I like this God indwelling me stuff, but don’t give me any rules. We like the benefits, but don’t want any restrictions. If we look at verse 10 though of John chapter 15 it is painfully clear, “If you keep my commandments, you will ABIDE in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and ABIDE in his love.”
What most don’t understand is living within those rules or commandments there is great freedom and joy. It is like so many other spiritual truths that go against our natural understanding . . . “the least will be the greatest”, “it is more blessed to give than receive”, “bless those who persecute you” and we could go on and on. Spiritual matters require Faith. If the spiritual made perfect sense to our natural fallen minds and God said, the greatest will be the greatest, get all you can and you will be happy and hate those who persecute you, where would Faith be? Maybe even more important who would receive the Glory?
Now I don’t claim to know what areas of your life God is calling to your attention or dare try to be the Holy Spirit for you, but I know we are all sinful, “for all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.” Romans 3:23. We all have areas of our lives that need repenting, “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8. None of us are perfect and if you think you are you just sinned at least twice by lying and being prideful.
God will show us His will as we remain in the Word and in prayer this week. Have a great week!
Paul LaBathe
