Beautiful Word Devotional #278

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

John 15:7

What does it mean to “remain” or—as you’ll find in other translations—“abide” in Jesus? In this context, the idea is to be deeply connected to Jesus and rooted in his love. We too easily focus on the promise in the latter part of John 15:7 without first recognizing the level of commitment Jesus calls for.

“Ask whatever you wish” is a reference to prayer, and the most effective prayer grows out of a genuine heart connection to Jesus. When we pray regularly, even continually, God works in our hearts, and we find our will lining up with his will for us. Clearly, prayer is a means of abiding.

Jesus also called his disciples to be sure that “my words remain in you.” Bible study and Scripture memorization also join us to Jesus. Have we made it our aim to read his words and let them settle into our souls long enough that our actions joyfully follow?

Good things follow when we live close to Jesus.

Lord, teach me to abide in you, through prayer and your Word, amen.