I have on numerous occasions talked about and encourage us to go boldly to the throne of God with our petitions. I have no doubt in my mind that God does answer our prayers, whether it is yes, no or wait. I would like to add another scripture for consideration as we make our request to God. John 15:7states- If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
In the preceding verses of this chapter John states that Jesus Christ is the True Vine and we are the branches and encourages us to abide in the vine so that we will bear much fruit. Not only will we bear much fruit but as so clearly put in verse 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
As Christians most of us know the importance of reading the Bible, but unfortunately quite a number of us do not understand the importance of abiding in the Word and allowing the word to abide in us.
The word Abide in the Greek translation has several meanings- intensive, to remain in a place instead of leaving it, to be true to, perseverance in continuing to do something, and constant residence. So, abiding in His word means that we stay put, or remain in place instead of leaving out. To abide in His word means that we keep pressing on even when it gets difficult or we get weary. Abiding in His word also means that we stay true to the word regardless of what may be happening in our lives and regardless of what others do with the word. Abiding in Christ means to live in Christ, it is a life of commitment. Getting our prayers answered is a privilege of abiding in the Word. The indwelling of God’s word in us would secure the harmony of us asking with His divine will. So abiding is more than mere words, it is essentially an action- Stop saying and start doing!
In His Service,
Vilma