Abiding In His Word | John 8:31

John 8:31 says, “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.’”

In this passage, Jesus offers a profound truth about what it means to be a true disciple. Discipleship is not just about believing in Jesus, but about living in a way that reflects His teachings in your daily life. Jesus invites you to “hold to His teaching,” meaning that you are called to not only hear His words but also live them out. True discipleship requires a continuous commitment to abiding in His Word, letting it shape your thoughts, actions, and decisions.

As a parent, you have a unique opportunity to model this for your children. The way you live, speak, and respond to the challenges of life can demonstrate to your children what it looks like to follow Christ. This doesn’t mean we have to be perfect; none of us are. It’s about showing persistence, continuing to grow in your faith, and teaching your children that God’s Word is a foundation they can always return to for guidance, comfort, and truth.

Abiding in Christ means you don’t just hear His Word on Sunday and forget it the rest of the week. Instead, it becomes the lens through which you view your entire life. It’s something you reflect on during your everyday moments—when you're feeling overwhelmed, when you face uncertainty, or even when you experience joy. It’s what helps you parent with wisdom, patience, and grace.

By holding on to the teachings of Jesus, you not only deepen your own relationship with Him, but you also leave a lasting legacy of faith for your children. When you show them how to remain grounded in God’s truth, even when the world around you pulls you in different directions, you give them the greatest gift: a foundation in Christ that will carry them through every season of life.

So today, let’s commit to abiding in His Word—letting it shape our hearts and influence how we parent. Let’s hold on to His teachings with persistence, knowing that we are raising children who will one day stand on that same foundation.

Click below to listen to the full devotion, meditation and guided prayer on this verse