Being With Christ vs. Being In Christ: A Grace-Filled Balance

"Resting in the constant warmth of union with Christ."

When I discussed With by Skye Jethani with my mentor, he noticed something subtle but significant in our 45-day spiritual disciplines guide: a strong focus on being with Christ through readings in Psalms and the Gospels, yet an absence of readings from the Epistles, which emphasize being in Christ. Being with Christ cultivates intimacy and mindfulness of His presence, but being in Christ grounds us in our identity as new creations united spiritually with Him.

Consider a person who diligently spends time in prayer and scripture reading each day, consistently seeking closeness with Christ. However, despite these efforts, they often feel spiritually distant or uncertain of their standing with God. The root issue is not a lack of discipline or sincerity, but rather a lack of understanding their secure identity and union in Christ. When they begin to grasp and rest in this foundational truth—that they are forever united with Christ—their daily devotional practices become joyful expressions of an existing relationship rather than anxious efforts to maintain intimacy. A full Christian life must embrace both realities of being with and in Christ.

Journal Entry in the Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture:
My beloved one, it fills My heart with joy to see your deep longing for closeness and friendship with Me. I treasure our daily moments together—the quiet times, the prayers you whisper, and the moments you sense My gentle nearness. But remember, dear child, our intimacy is not something fragile or uncertain; it flows naturally and beautifully from the permanent, unshakeable bond we already share.

You are not just journeying beside Me; you live within Me, deeply rooted and eternally united. You are a new creation—secure, forgiven, deeply cherished, and fully accepted. Because of this perfect union we share, intimacy isn't something you must strive for; it grows effortlessly out of knowing who you already are in Me.

Let your heart rest in the warmth and security of our unbreakable connection. Simply abide in My love, and you’ll find intimacy blossoming freely, beautifully, and naturally—just as I’ve always intended.

(John 15:4-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20; Romans 6:5; Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:3; Romans 8:38-39)

Prayer:
Father, I praise You for the beautiful truth that I am forever spiritually united with Christ. Thank You for establishing my identity firmly in Him. I trust completely in what You've already provided—full intimacy and unbreakable union. May my heart continually rest in this reality, experiencing Your presence from this foundation of grace and security. In Jesus' name, amen.

Metaphor:
Imagine intimacy as sunlight streaming through a window. Being with Christ is opening the curtains each morning to let the light pour in, experiencing its warmth. Being in Christ means understanding that the sunlight never leaves, even when curtains are closed—the sun remains constant, always present, always nourishing.

Credits:
Inspired by a conversation about With by Skye Jethani, insights from my mentor.

Ideal Image: A bright room with sunlight streaming through partially opened curtains.

Photo credit: Unsplash