Much of modern Christianity has become something we practice rather than who we are. Too often our Christian instruction focuses on what we need to do, what we are not doing, or what we should have done. Thus creating an environment of lack, loss, regret and guilt. Unhealthy emotions produces an unhealthy psyche. The enemy of our soul then has greater access to our mind with the intent to kill, steal, and destroy. (John 10:10) If he is successful, a life of love, joy and peace is thwarted. Jesus desire for us to live “life in abundance,” becomes elusive. (Galatians 5:22)
It has been said that the Bible is more accurately viewed as a collection of God’s love letters to His children. With this in mind, meditating on scripture becomes a journey of discovery. A search for the precious jewels of God’s ways, His character, and His plans and desires for me, His child. “I have made known to them your name (character) and I will continue to make it known..” (John 17:26) “In the beginning was the word…and the word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:1,14) Jesus, the Word, connects us to our Creator. (John 17:22, 23) He is the Living Word…not a dead book of laws. Holy Spirit is an honest, faithful friend who leads us into truth. (John 16:13) Submission becomes a desired end as we commune with Him.
The Apostle John in chapter 15 tells us there is only one way to bear much fruit that remains. That is to abide in God. To dwell in, be present in, remain in Him. This is both a decision and a lifestyle. We must not turn the love letters of scripture into a religious book of principles. It is the daily, vital, intimate fellowship with God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – that fills us, transforms us, and enlivens us thereby producing much fruit! “You search the scriptures in hope of finding eternal life, but they bear witness to me!” (John 5:39) God Himself is the fertile soil of growth. There is no substitute. Abiding…dwelling…living in Him. So elementary, yet so difficult in our over-stimulating world. There is much that diverts our attention to keep us out of “His secret place”. That quiet place where I look at Him and He looks at me.
And just exactly what is this secret place? “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1) I have come to realize that it is the person of Jesus Christ. The New Testament declares that our lives are hid with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:3) A hidden place is a secret place. What is hid is safe. He is our hiding place in God. “For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory.” (Psalm 32:7)
When we are resting in Jesus we are protected from the life draining attacks of the devil. We are still attacked, but the life of God cannot be stolen. Since we are “in him” we are also in the Father where nothing and no one can snatch us away. (John 10:29) It is this place of blissful security, where I can come boldly into His presence to receive grace, that growth and fruit can happen! (Hebrews 4:16)
Oh Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! I will come away with you where You can see my face and hear my voice and where I can gaze upon Your beauty!
In the Beginning 