April 24, 2021: Abide in Him
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, NIV).
I have many Bible verses that I love. But in light of recent times, John 15:5 has become my favorite. This verse became particular meaningful to me during the COVID-19 pandemic, because this crisis, and the other crises plaguing our world today, are sure signs of Jesus’ soon return. I hear people saying, “Get ready, world! Get ready, church! Jesus is coming soon!” And while that may be true, the real question is, “How do I get ready?” By abiding in Him. Only those who abide in Jesus will thrive during difficult times.
So how does one abide in God? By surrendering all to Him. As the old gospel hymn goes, “All to Jesus, I surrender, all to Him I freely give.”
In Matthew 11:28–30, Jesus bids us, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ... For I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (NIV).
Lord, thank You for waiting for us. May we come to You, for Your arms are open wide. Amen.
Richard Klinedinst is a member of the York church in Pennsylvania.
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