Abide in me.

 Abide in Me

A Reflection on John 15:4-5, 7

"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing." (John 15:4-5)

Abide in Me—not a fleeting visit, not a passing glance,

But a permanent dwelling, a constant, holy trance.

It is not a place you visit now and then,

But the home where your soul feels safe again.

Abide—not in the storm of striving,

But in the stillness of trusting.

Not in the noise of doing,

But in the quiet of being.

In Me—in the Vine, in the Source of life,

In the One who stills all inner strife.

In My love, in My Word, in My grace,

In the shelter of My embrace.

"If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." (John 15:7)

Abide in My love—when fear surrounds,

When the enemy prowls and doubt abounds.

Let My perfect love cast out every fear,

And let My presence draw you near.

Abide in My Word—let it dwell in you richly,

Let it shape your thoughts and make you holy.

It is the lamp to your feet, the light to your way,

The anchor that holds you through the fray.

Abide in My peace—when chaos rages,

When the storm winds blow through the ages.

Let My peace, which surpasses all understanding,

Be the calm in your heart, ever standing.

Abide in Me—when the world is loud,

When you are weary, broken, or bowed.

Let My strength be your portion, My joy your song,

And let your life in Me be strong.

For apart from Me, you can do nothing.

But in Me, you have everything.

Abide in Me—and you will bear much fruit,

A life of love, a life of truth.

Abide in Me. I will abide in you.

This is the promise, the covenant, the truth.

So rest in Me, and let Me rest in you,

And I will make all things new.

Amen.