Holy, Healthy, Whole: Growing Fruits of the Spirit for Weight Loss and WellnessNäide

Abide

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. John 15:4-9 (NIV)

How can you abide in God?

The Greek word for abide used in this passage is like our word for “stay” or “remain”, with a connotation similar to staying in someone’s home and receiving hospitality.

The Merriam-Webster definition for abide is:

Abide (v)

• to accept or bear
• to stay or live somewhere
• to remain or continue
• to wait for
• to accept without objection

No matter how you look at it, there is a clear picture. We need to stick with God.

Several years ago, I took a part-time job working for a hospice agency providing Companion Care. Companion Care workers offer respite to family members or come if family members are not available. I would sit with dying clients, typically during their final few days and often at night.

When I walked into these situations, I often felt ill-equipped for the task. These dear people were in their most vulnerable hours. What would I say? What would I have to offer?

My husband, Mike, who is a pastor, often reminded me, “Your presence is the best gift you can give. It’s okay if you don’t say anything. Just be there.”

One night, I spent time with the sweetest woman who was nearing the end of her life. She had been experiencing anxiety. She slept off and on, and when she woke up, she wanted to know someone was there.

“Stay with me,” she asked throughout the night. “I’m right here,” I assured her, again and again. “I won’t leave, not all night long, I promise.” In the morning, she said to me, “Thank you for staying with me. I never could have made it through the night without you.”

This is what it means to abide.

Reflection: Are you abiding with God? Are you staying with Him throughout your weight loss journey?

Prayer: Lord, I cling to you with everything I have. I know that any power in my life only comes from abiding in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.