Women in Discipleship (sm)

Weekly Devotional 2006

 

Week 14    Abiding

 

 

The word “abide” is rather significant.   John will use this word 10 times in this chapter. The word “abide” means: Going back to where you began.. Your first belief. Your salvation experience.

 

It was at your salvation that the Holy Spirit was poured within you. (Acts 13: 38) This anointing is your deposit, guarantee, down payment, of things to comeJ.

 

With this explanation in mind we have an obligation to Christ to live as He lived. We are to be aware of the stumbling blocks of flesh and by Holy Spirit power…flee them just like the young men did in verse 14. (1 Corinthians 10:13) These people hungered to know God’s Word and they were strengthened to flee the temptation through it. Through this thy became overcomers.

 

Abide, such a simple word yet so profound in this context. As we walk our life in the Light we are to remember the times of our early faith experience. 

 

 

Recalling your early faith experience describe how you grew in faith through that time.

What was the one thing that gave you the most encouragement back then? Now?

How is your “abiding” today?

 

A quick reminder. John reminds the believers in the church at Ephesus (Rev. 2:4) that, though all there deeds were on target and a real blessing, yet one thing they lacked…”abiding”, their 1^st love experience. This is a passion for the cleansed life where sins stain was washed in the blood of Christ and a new heart was birthed.

 

Abiding, it’s a great word when applied to our hearts in love for Christ 1^st and forever!

Much love in Christ to all of you “abiders,”

Sandra Davis for Women in Discipleship