We are by nature acceptance magnets and approval addicts. We want others to admire us and to affirm us. I heard about a basketball coach who instructed his players to always acknowledge their teammate who passed the ball to them which enabled them to make the shot. One of the players responding by asking the coach, “What if they aren’t looking?”
The coach responded by saying, “They’ll be looking!”
Why would a basketball player who passed the ball off for a teammate to make a shot want to be acknowledged for his selflessness? He longs for acceptance, approval, admiration, and affirmation.
The ultimate demonstration of acceptance and approval is Jesus dying on the cross for our sins and being raised to life for our justification. The ultimate actualization of His acceptance and approval is the fact that He permanently dwells in our heart.
“…so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.” Eph 3:17 (NIV)
Jesus moves in so that we can have an abiding relationship with Him. To abide means to dwell and to take up residence and to feel at home. Is Jesus at home in your life? Have you given Him access to every area of your life?
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 (NIV)
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care