Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Abide In Him


We would be better Christians if we spent more time alone, and we would actually accomplish more if we attempted less and spent more time in isolation and quiet waiting upon God. 

 The world has become too much a part of us, and we are afflicted with the idea that we are not accomplishing anything unless we are always busily running back and forth.  We no longer believe in the importance of a calm retreat where we sit silently in the shade.  

As the people of God, we have become entirely too practical.  We believe in having "all our irons in the fire" and that all the time we spend away from the anvil or fire is wasted time.  Yet our time is never more profitably spent than when we set aside time for quiet meditation, talking with God, and looking up to heaven.  

We can never have too many of these open spaces in life ~ hours aside when our soul is completely open and accessible to any heavenly thought or influence that God may be pleased to send our way.  

People living in cities today would do well to follow the example of Isaac and as often as possible visit the fields of the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.  After having grown weary from the heat and noise of the city, communion with nature is very refreshing and will bring a calming healing influence. 
{From Streams In The Desert}

Abide in me, and I in you.  
As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, 
except it abide in the vine; 
no more can ye, except ye abide in me.  
I am the vine, ye are the branches:  
He that abides in me, and I in him, 
the same brings forth much fruit:  
for without me ye can do nothing.
John 15:4,5

If you have a chance, watch Andy Stanley preach a 30 minute sermon 
on abiding in Jesus and being free from the law HERE.