[Alert: New article for summer, link below.]
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Recently, we have been spending time with John 15:4. That’s where Jesus said: “Abide in me, and I in you.”
In the previous devotional, we talked about taking our time with Jesus’ words instead of rushing past them. This is one of the ways we can “abide” with him. This phrase presumes closeness and time with the Lord.
Here’s another idea. Don’t rush past people’s needs. Let me explain.
In a section of text about abiding in him, Jesus makes the direct connection to loving others. John 15:10 says: “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.”
One of the ways we “abide” in Jesus, is to abide in his love—which includes loving others as he loved us.
When you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Jesus wants us to prioritize him. He wants us to put him first. Since he gave his life for others, and since he blessed and helped people non-stop, one of the ways we abide in him is to do these same things!
I heard about a farmer who passed away before his crop was brought in. So the surrounding farmers from his church went over to his place and worked into the night. Only when they had brought in their neighbour’s crop for the benefit of his wife and children did they return to deal with their own.
You may not be a farmer, but you will be given other opportunities to abide in the love of Christ by resisting the urge to rush past people’s needs, and instead to provide help or hope.
I’ve been a pastor for many years. One of my greatest privileges has been to see people sharing the love of Christ. Often, it’s behind-the-scenes, and sometimes it’s anonymous. But it brings a tear to my eye.
No church is perfect. But when it acts upon the truth and love of Christ, it is powerful.
Jesus said: “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love…”
Notes:
-“Keeping Faith in Summer.” This is my latest article for The Gospel Coalition Canada. Finding it hard to stay consistent in summer? If so, you’re not alone. Here are four quick tips. Click here.
-Bible quotes, ESV.
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