This past Christmas my wife and I surprised our kids with a new puppy named Wrigley. While potty training him was not an easy task, we have never needed to train him to stay near us. Often our back door is open and Wrigley can go in and out of our house as he pleases, yet he simply prefers being with our family.

This is what Jesus was trying to teach His disciples in John 15. Remaining or abiding in Christ is necessary for all Christian service. The reason for this is that we don’t work for Jesus, and ultimately our aim is not to keep Jesus happy with us. Our desire is for Jesus Christ to live His life in and through us, for without Jesus, your best works count for nothing. Do you believe that?

We live in a day and age of performance where we believe the more work we accomplish and the harder we work, the more pleased God is with us. However, God is only pleased with us because Jesus Christ died in our place for our sins and rose from the dead. A true understanding of our relationship with Christ involves Jesus Christ doing His work in and through us.

Therefore, we are called to abide in Christ. Simply put, we are called to enjoy Him. God’s desire for us is to spend time with and pursue Him as He alone is our joy and strength.

How are you doing? Are you worn out? Are you tired of church? Are you sick of your routine? Then how about taking time today for you to simply enjoy Jesus Christ?

PRAYER

Jesus, I confess I have been working to please You, am burned out, and tired because I have not allowed You to do Your work through me. I have acted independently, and as a result, I am weary. Lord, please refresh me with Your truth and the indwelling presence of Your Holy Spirit. Thank You that I do not have to work to please You, but rather that You are already pleased with me because of my trust in You for the forgiveness of my sins. Please allow me to simply enjoy You today. Amen.