Abide:
to wait for : await
a : to endure without yielding : withstand
b : to bear patiently : tolerate
to accept without objection
To remain stable or fixed in a state

 

It started at the end of our bible study where this verse really resonated with me:

“These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might abide in you, and that your joy might be full.” –JOHN 15:11

Full joy comes from abiding in Christ.  Being connected to the vine.

Each year a word is given to define the next 12 months. ABIDE is the word for 2017.  Abiding in Him that I would bear much fruit!  Reading John 15 this morning reminded me that apart from Christ, I can do nothing.  Nothing lasting, nothing of value, nothing worthy.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Its not that I want to be great but I want to great for Him.  We were born and created to bring Glory to God.  Its the whole mission of creation.  To glorify the Father.  Our lives, each breath, is a testimony to the greatness of God.  He is sovereign over all things and if we have any hope of bearing fruit worth any value, it must be through abiding in Christ.

If you know anything about me, this is not a new concept, or an earth shattering declaration.  Abiding in Christ seems to be already a part of my life but more then anything this year, I desire to have my abiding count.  I hope with all hope that my joy would be full and that I will abide in the shadow of the almighty.