We begin the year by grounding our entire faith in the reality that every Christian is now in Christ — united with Him, joined to His life, and sustained by His presence. Jesus’ image of the vine and branches shows that Christianity is not just believing what Jesus said or imitating what Jesus did; it is receiving His very life. To “abide in Him” means staying connected, dependent, and receptive to the life Jesus already gives. Our identity is not achieved but received, and everything God will grow in us this year begins with this simple, essential command: remain in Me.

From our "Abide" series • Austin Payne