Abide: Where to Stay When Nothing Lasts..Jeanne Doyon

 Abide: Where to Stay When Nothing Lasts

By Jeanne Doyon

BIBLE VERSE OF THE DAY: 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.  I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. - John 15:4-6

Abide. This word has been on my heart lately as I study John chapter 15. We don’t use the word abide much anymore—maybe never—because nothing seems to last.

Marriages fail.
Riches flee.
Cars break down.
Health deteriorates.
Friends fail.

Churches split.
Relationships cool.
Possessions break.
Quality erodes.
Nothing lasts.

But, Jesus says:

Abide. Stay. Remain. Trust that I AM your constant. I will never turn my back on you. I AM the one you can trust. When all else is falling apart, I will remain. I will be your rock and shield.

Psalm 91:1 says, Abide in the shadow of the Almighty. To me this means:

Not running ahead or lagging behind.

Under His protection
Surrounded by His presence
Shielded from my enemies
Covered with His hand

Resting in His power and sovereignty
Sure of His knowledge and leading
Trusting in His timing and care

God Covers You – Good News for Us

So when we face shattered pieces and people around us, know that God is covering you with His shadow. This is news our world needs. It is the hope that anchors us. It is the message He wants you to carry and proclaim…

God says:

I will abide. My love will remain. My grace and mercy will be poured out. Forgiveness will be found because I AM is faithful. Abide in me, and I in you (John 15).

What does Abide mean to you, and how do you need His close presence today?

Will you remain under the covering of His shadow?