The Christ within who is our hope of glory is not… a hobby, a part-time project, a good theme for a book, or a last resort when all human effort fails. He is our life, the most real fact about us. He is the power and wisdom of God dwelling within us. —Brennan Manning
Does Christ in me change anything? Absolutely.
- Since Jesus is in us, we can truly experience life. Not just experiencing any life—the life of Christ. Far beyond salaries, pensions, and square footage. Far beyond fertility, infertility, loss, and success. We experience the fullness of the life of Christ because He is in us.
- Since Jesus is in us, we can experience life with endurance. When we feel worn out, we can keep going. When our patience feels depleted, we can still love well because He is in us.
- Since Christ is in us, we can say no to sin. If we are in Christ, sin is temporary insanity. It is not who we are. It’s not where we belong. We’ve died to indwelling sin and are alive in Christ because He is in us.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
So let me ask you, does being indwelt by God change anything? No, not just anything—everything: I was dead, now I live. I was tired, now I persevere. I was defeated, now I’m victorious. I was consumed by self, now I offer nourishment for others.
But even more than that, I’m participating in the divine life. It’s the closest intimacy with God available here on earth. I’m never alone. I’m always able—because He is in me… He is in you too.
Jesus, today, in a new way, I ask that You make me aware of the truth about Your constant presence and power in me. Here I am, Lord. I’m ready to experience Your life. Amen.