Vineyard Lessons: Is Abiding Active or Passive?

So, is abiding in the vine active or passive? What’s your thought on that?

At first glance abiding appears to be passive. But in reality, abiding is an active choice.

When we first come to Christ he asks us to follow him, and like the disciples we drop what we are doing and go. Or at least I’m hoping you did. 🙂

Then in John 15 Jesus asks us to abide in him. Or is that a command? Either way, how much more inviting abiding be?

And as we think of abiding in him continually, that’s a far stretch. The heights of his ways, the plans, and righteousness are simply beyond the human reach. We can’t even jump that high.

But paradox reveals that in his strength he lifts us up to his standard in order to abide. Our surrender (choice) is met by his power to sustain us.

Our role is to say, “Yes, Lord.” Then the Master Gardener of our heart takes over.

The icing on the cake is that he abides in us as we abide in him. Now that’s an invitation to accept. Choose to actively abide.

Scripture for Today

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! (John 15:5-7 NLT).

God’s Whisper

My Beloved, come and abide continually. As you abide, rest in my loving presence in the surrounding darkness of the world. Be reminded that I have overcome the world. My light illumines the darkness.
In my presence, carry my light. Pray continually for those who live prefer to live in the shroud of shadows.
Rest in me and allow fears to vanish and cares to lift. Yes, allow me to bear your burdens. Let me minister to your weakened frame, your weary soul. Recieve my life giving word and let my truth set you free.
Rejoice my Beloved. This is the day that I have made. Again I say rejoice.
I hold and keep you. Abide in me and I will abide in you.
Love, the Father