This last month has shown me the fruit of abiding in Jesus.
I feel more at peace within myself. I feel content even though certain things have not gone my way. I feel the freedom of just letting things be and not forcing things to happen.
Another word for abide is remain, and I have just remained. I have just stayed put in Him.
And no, it has not been all down to my own efforts. There have been times where I have just been hanging on by a thread, and this whole time He has just held on to me as I have held on to Him.
His words have brought me comfort and strength. His voice has allowed me to persevere. His words have been light unto my feet, and His guidance has kept me aligned to His purpose.
No, it has not been easy. There have been tears, there has been screaming and shouting. There have been the “Why me, Lord? Why is this happening?”
No—abiding is not a romantic word. It is not an easy thing to do.
Abiding is letting go. It is saying, “Your will, Lord, and not mine.”
Abiding can feel mundane because sometimes the world out there seems to be more fun. Abiding doesn’t look pretty, but it is worth it in the end.
The fruit of abiding is joy, self-control, love, peace. The fruit is long-lasting.
''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.''
John 15 : 5
