Apr 19 – Abide!

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:4)

A few years ago in the land of Wales, there was a miner who was a deeply devoted believer. He experienced the presence of God in an extraordinary way and often spoke with the Lord as though face to face. When someone asked him the secret of his spiritual life, this is what he said: “Sir, every morning in the quiet early hours, I spend a long time at the feet of the Lord. After that I say, ‘Lord, I will not walk alone in this life. You are my partner. Together we will go through this day.’

Then, whatever duties or work I have to do that day, I consider that the Lord is my partner in all of them. Since the Lord and I are partners, I do not think of them as my duties. I consider them as our duties. Even in the smallest matters I seek the Lord’s counsel. I, a human being, walk in partnership with God.”

Have you accepted the Lord as your partner? He is not only your surety and mediator, but also your companion in life. Though He is the Almighty God, He is deeply concerned about every detail of your life.

You can walk hand in hand with the Lord. Enoch walked with God. The Lord is a gentle companion, a holy companion, and a companion who stays with us quietly, often unnoticed by others.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” (Psalm 32:8)

When we sense the presence of God, sometimes He comes near like a brother. At other times He speaks openly like a friend. And like a loving father, He leads us forward.

For King David, the Lord was like a shepherd who led him to green pastures and beside still waters. David says: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:2–3)

Children of God, firmly hold on to the presence of the Lord so that He may lead you always. Never forget that every moment you are with Him, and He is with you.

Verse for further meditation: “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same.” (Hebrews 2:14)