Know, Grow, Show. Reflections From John 15Chikamu

DAY 7 - HOW DO I REMAIN? 

Verse 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing."

What does remain mean? Our relationship with Jesus is eternal. No one can pluck you from His hand. However, what quality of relationship you enjoy is up to you.

The word abide/remain is repeated 10 times in a span of 4 verses. Repetition for emphasis is a style of a good teacher and Jesus certainly was that. We would be wise to pay attention to what Jesus puts an emphasis on.

The Word abide/remain is also translated “to stay/to dwell”. To make your dwelling place. This is seen in the Old Testament very well in Psalm 91 and Psalm 84. It is about taking up residence. It is where you feel secure, relaxed “at home” and have your most intimate relationships. 

In the Old Testament, God’s presence was confined to a geographical space. People traveled from all over to come to the temple where His presence was. His death on the cross put an end to that. Today, his presence is not confined to a box behind a thick curtain.  He has made our hearts His dwelling place.

So we see that remaining has a lot to do with our response not Jesus’ commitment to us. He is committed to us to the very end of the age. Note the verse puts the onus on us. Jesus on his part said he would never leave us.

Abiding requires commitment and covenant. It is not transactional or conditional. Remaining requires a long-term commitment. It is not wishy-washy. It requires determination, steadfastness, and faithfulness no matter what. 

Jesus is unconditionally faithful and committed to us. Are we unconditionally faithful and committed to him? Is it a relationship of convenience? You may even ask what has all the remaining or abiding have to do with growing? It has everything to do with growing. Without the remaining, you cannot have growth.

REFLECT AND ASK YOURSELF|

Do I know deep in my heart that Jesus is always with me?
Do I know deep in my heart that Jesus is always for me?
How do you experience His presence? If you have not ask Him to reveal himself to you.
Whether you feel Him or not, anchor in the truth that he will always be with you.