Being In Christ

When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father,
and you are in me, and I am in you. ~ John 14:20 NLT

The Bible tells us that we are “complete” in Christ. (Col.2:9,10) We lack no good thing.  As I was pondering that recently, I realized that when a need arises, or when I become aware of a weakness or “hole” in myself that needs filling, I cry out to God and wait for his help.  For decades that seemed like the right thing to do.

But suddenly the Holy Spirit flashed a picture of me literally being “in Christ”.  And my spirit knew that as Jesus told his disciples in John 14:20 (above) that I was permeated and covered on all sides, top and bottom with Jesus.  It may not feel like it, and I haven’t been acting like it. But God’s Word says it is true.  You and I already have all we need in Christ. 

Does that sound crazy?  I encourage you to sit quietly and ask the Holy Spirit to “show” you what it means to be in Christ and his Spirit in you and you both in the Father. 

When I did that, suddenly all the other wonderful but mysterious verses I need when I feel down and weak made sense.  You and I are not a “beggars” waiting on a handout from God. His Word tells us we are daughters of a good, good Father who wants to give us his best gifts, as they align with his will, timing and purposes.  We are created to be one with Christ.

Take your rightful position in Christ, indwelled by his Spirit, hidden in the Father and read these verses aloud.  Choose to believe them every day.
    For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.  (Phil.4:13)
     For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.  So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.  (Col. 2:9,10)
     Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.  For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.”  (Col. 3:2,3)
     Each time He said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. (2 Cor.12:9)

So, when we have a need or feel defeated and weak, let’s start standing in God’s sufficiency, not our own insufficiency.  It honors Jesus when we believe him and act on his truth that way.

Dear friend, may you sense the pleasure of your heavenly Father as you choose to believe and take your place in Christ.  Be blessed with a growing love for Jesus who surrounds you and fills you with his presence.  May you always feel secure, at peace and dearly loved wherever you are.  Whatever the challenge you face, Jesus and you can overcome.  Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ November 8, 2022