Feeling dry? We’ve all been there. It’s been a busy week and now I have to pull it together and be a cheerleader on Sunday. The songs feel dry and I wonder why somebody doesn’t get up and ask me to sit down because I feel I have nothing to give. News flash: YOU have nothing to give. That’s the point. When we look to our feelings we won’t find any strength. But let’s be honest. God’s Spirit lives in me. I remind myself I’m not alone. He is the greater one in me.
Jesus said in John 15:5-6 “I am the vine, and you are the branches. If you stay joined to me, and I to you, you will produce plenty of fruit. But separated from me you won’t be able to do anything. If you don’t stay joined to me, you will be like a branch that has been thrown out and has dried up.”
Meaning of “Abide”
The King James uses the phrase “abide in me” which means remain, stay with and tarry. Spiritually Jesus will never leave us. Our relationship with Him is secure. But I think the fellowship side is perhaps what Jesus is referring to as well. I am the one who can choose how close or far away I am with Him. Fruit comes from staying in close fellowship and taking time to be honest and talk with Him about everything. When I have a terrible week, I honestly come to Him and ask for His help because due to situations beyond my control I feel out of sorts today. For the sake of the congregation I ask for mercy and help. And then I relax and trust. This is what abide really means- trust. God knows you and all about it. He cares about you as much as anyone else. Just rest in His love and mercy even when you haven’t used your time well. Maybe you haven’t been diligent to seek God this week. Honestly say, Lord, I haven’t sought you well, but right now I seek you.
Don’t allow condemnation over your failure alienate you from His mercy. Learn to be quick to forgive yourself and press in!
