But when I read John 15 I hear Jesus say that our first priority is to “remain” or “abide” in the vine. The Greek word means, “to remain, continue, stand firm.”
Much of what we attempt to do for Jesus fails to reach its full potential because we fail to get the first part right—we do not begin from a position of remaining in Christ. There are a lot of good ideas that were not “God ideas.” I believe that “God ideas” are birthed from our time standing in the presence of God.
In a western culture that values action and busyness it is hard to carve out the intentional time to “remain” in the presence of God. But the most important thing I can do for God is “remain” in His presence.
When Gabriel introduced himself to Zacharias in Luke 1 he identified himself as “Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God.” He was the same Gabriel who brought God’s word to Daniel in the Old Testament 600 years earlier. He is also the angel who came to Mary to announce God’s plan for the birth of Jesus. From scriptures we know that Gabriel was a warrior and messenger for Almighty God. But when he introduced himself the focus was on one thing, “I stand in the presence of God.”
I challenge each of us to look at our daily schedule and see when we can carve out a few moments to “remain” or “stand” in the presence of God. If you don’t have a regular pattern of time with God start with five minutes a day. Read a passage of scripture and ask God what He wants you to get from that passage.
If you have been following God for some time, try 15 minutes a day. Read some Scripture, ask for God to show you His truth, and then share with God your hurts and needs. As you begin to make this a regular habit you will need more time—and you will discover some “God ideas” and directions.
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