And the person who keeps his commandments resides in God, and God in him. Now by this we know that God resides in us: by the Spirit he has given us.
Into the Text
Abiding in Christ is an active choice to live out God’s Word daily. 1 John 3:24 reminds us that abiding is deeply connected to obedience. When we keep God’s commandments, we do it out of love to Him and in the strength He provides, knowing that we are not perfect yet, but striving to walk ever more closely to Him.
God, in His grace, doesn’t ask us to obey in our own strength. He gives us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, to encourage, guide, and enable us to live out His Word. When we start to wander away from Jesus, when the lure of the world gets strong and our love grows cold, the Holy Spirit will draw us back to His Word. When we stumble and fall, giving in to temptation, the Holy Spirit will convict us and lead us to repentance. When we feel weak and tired, wanting to give up our faith, the Holy Spirit will renew us, strengthen us, and enable us to keep going.
So, dear friend, when the going gets tough, and you are not sure if you can do God’s will – surrender to Him again. Let go of that unbelief that pulls you down. Remember that God Himself lives in you, He has cleansed you, and given you a new life. He will complete the good work He has started in you. Because of the work of the Holy Spirit in us, we are enabled to keep His commandments.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me your Spirit to help me obey and abide in you. May my life be a reflection of your love and truth. Help me to remain close to you every day. Amen.