Remaining Anointed; First John

May the mumbling commence!

Today, I read from the NIV Study Bible that I began this journey of reading the Bible on.  It is wonderful to see the writing in the margins.  Such a familiar copy of the Bible can evoke some deep remembrances.  In a way, it is like returning home.  I can find my favorite passages in this particular copy of the Bible faster than in any other Bible.

It is the one copy that I read most frequently.  It represents to me the beginning of my faith journey in earnest.  The Holy Spirit anointed me as I held this book in my hand.  Yes, it is a book; but it much more to me than that.

I abide in the Word of God.  Abiding is a commandment of God that is important to keep.  Abiding in God’s Word will feed us in a way that nothing else can.  We do not live on bread alone.  We live on every Word that comes from the mouth of God.  Feast on these words from First John chapter two (NIV):

See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father.  And this is what he promised us – even eternal life. 

I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray.  As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit – just as it has taught you, remain in him. (Verses 24-27)

Realize that you are anointed by the Word of God.  That anointing is real not counterfeit.  When someone speaks against that anointing on you, do NOT listen.  We are already prone to wander from our Lord.  So do NOT let someone else lead you astray.

As we remain with this anointing, we need to reapply the Word of God – by reading Scripture, by listening to Scripture, by prayer, and by fasting.  Remaining in God’s Word opens the door for us to remain and abide in the Son and the Father.  And that open door leads to eternal life with God.

What a happy thought!  For being with God is what we were made for.  Be with God.  Praise God!

So, let’s review our list of commands of God to obey…  And remember that to obey God’s commands is to love Him.

Be obedient to God.  Live upright lives.  Stick together. Confess Christ Jesus.  Abide in the Word and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.  Abide in the Father and the Son.  Allow nothing in your life to contradict the anointing God has given you.

The picture is becoming fuller and richer.  And we have barely scratched the surface of the greatest commandment of all!

Enough mumbling for now…

Peace Out