This is a new category for us. Look for additional Bible Study resources over the next several months.
The first word, of the first Psalm of the Bible’s prayer book is Blessed. The word is reserved for those who experience life optimally, as the Creator intended. He designed us for joy, for peace, even for fun!
As Christians, we are taught that God has this under control. We repeat it to ourselves and to each other, trying to have confidence that the world isn’t ‘going to hell in a hand basket’ as my mother used to say.
Every believer comes to a place in their lives where they know they are missing something. It’s a bit hard to describe. I trust Jesus and His wonderful gift for my salvation. The fear of damnation has been removed. Perhaps I have even walked away from sins that I knew would displease God. So that’s what the Abiding Life is all about, right?
So the first thing to notice about getting attached to the vine, is that it is not your job. The Father draws us to Him. God is power and our guide along the path. The most important thing to learn in all of life is that it’s not about us, it is about Him. (See also Ephesians 2:8-9)
Jesus makes many promises, but many start with ‘if you abide in me’ My life turned around when I finally understood!
For the next 8 days we will focus on aligning our hearts and minds with His. This is the beginning of drawing close to God.