The Command
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (John 15:4)
What It Means
“Abide” isn’t a word most of us use every day. It means to remain, stay, or dwell, to make your home in a place instead of just visiting. Jesus uses it again and again in John 15:4-10, with the picture of a vine and its branches. A branch doesn’t bear fruit by trying harder. It stays attached and draws its life from the vine, and cut off, it withers. Jesus says abiding means his words staying in you, staying in his love, and keeping his commands, and the result is a life that thrives and bears much fruit.
Try It Today
Stay in conversation with Jesus all day. Start each new activity with a short word to him: before breakfast, getting into the car, arriving at work or school, before lunch. One sentence is enough. Then do it again at the next one, and keep going until the day ends.
Tonight’s Prayer
Jesus, I want to stay connected to you. Thank you for staying with me through the whole day, even when I forgot. Keep me close tomorrow. Amen.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.