Remaining in Christ

God uses and works through what continues to exist. After a serious loss – the death of a close loved one, divorce, major physical impairment or financial setback – in self-pity and anguish of spirit we cry over what has been taken, failing to see the potential of what remains. He is still God of what is left. Scripture's exhortation to “strengthen what remains” (Rev 3:2) invites us to stop mourning what is gone and to begin investing in what God has preserved. While we often focus on what we have lost, God uses what is left – if we give Him permission – so in humility and brokenness, give the pieces to Him. The resourcefulness of God uses the seeming little that we see, and works a miracle. What we have been through becomes beneficial to us going forward.

What remains in my life that God wants to use?

The key to being a fruitful Christian is to remain in vital connection to Christ, the source of that life (Jn 14:6, 15:4-10; Act 11:23, 14:22). We must intentionally choose and take the necessary steps to continue walking with the Lord, for Satan will try to lure us away and give up or present an alternative ‘shortcut’ that will become a dead-end.

Am I remaining connected to Christ daily?

“The Lord remains [continues] faithful forever” (Ps 146:6). Our security is not found in our own ability to hold on, but in the faithfulness of the One who holds us. Being confident that He is my exceeding great reward (Gen 15:1), I will cling to Him regardless. To remain is to keep returning to Christ, to keep yielding to His Spirit, and to keep walking in obedience even when the path is difficult.

Will I choose to keep walking with the Lord?