How do we know that we are truly abiding in Christ?

The indicator of truly abiding in Christ is not merely about feelings or experiences, but rather the evidence of His Word residing in us and the manifestation of spiritual fruit in our lives. In John 15:7, Jesus says, 'If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.' This emphasizes the importance of His Word; if we are sincerely connected to Christ, His teachings will shape our prayers and desires, aligning them with His will.

Additionally, the fruit we bear serves as tangible evidence of our union with the vine. As Galatians 5:22-23 outlines, the fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A life that increasingly reflects these virtues is a sign of a believer who is truly abiding in Christ, while a lack of such fruit may indicate a disconnect from this vital relationship.