REMAIN IN HIM: Finding Your Spiritual 911

Where do you turn when the world feels overwhelming? In a powerful reflection on "Spiritual 911," this blog explores what it truly means to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. From the "rushing wind" of the Holy Spirit to the "bubbling spring" of living water, discover how to move beyond temporary relief and learn to remain in the presence of the King.

C. Atkinson

9/14/20243 min read

“Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from this heart.’” — John 7:37-38

Blessings to you, dear reader! I greet you in the mighty and glorious name of Jesus—the name above every name, our reigning King and the Lord of Glory. As we navigate the twists and turns of this life, my heart’s cry for us is simple yet profound: Let us remain in Him.

The 911 Revelation

I was recently speaking with a dear sister in Christ who was walking through the valley of grief and trial. She looked at me with tear-filled eyes and said, “My only safe place is when I call 911.” Seeing my confusion, she smiled and clarified: “My 911 is Psalm 91:1—He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”

In that moment, the Lord gave me a revelation. Seeking Him daily and staying in that "secret place" is the only way to truly remain in Him. In that dwelling place, fear, doubt, and despair lose their power. They must bow to the peace that surpasses all human understanding. Jesus is our strong tower; He is the only emergency response that never fails.

What Does it Mean to Dwell?

The word "dwell" appears 58 times in the Bible. In Hebrew, it is yashab, meaning to settle, to sit down, to remain, or to endure. To dwell is to be fully present. It is more than a visit; it is a residency. When we dwell with God, we aren't just "visiting" church on Sundays; we are settling into a conscious, moment-by-moment engagement with His presence.

Thirsting for the Living Water

Are you thirsty today? Not for the things of this world that leave you parched, but for the "Living Water" that never runs dry?

Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well that earthly water only satisfies for a moment, but the water He gives becomes a “fresh, bubbling spring within... giving eternal life” (John 4:13-14). Like that woman, our response should be: "Sir, give me this water!" Remaining in Him requires a change of perspective. It means seeking the things above rather than the temporary fixes of this earth. It is a daily submission to the Plan of Salvation (Acts 2:38)—coming to God with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, ready for Him to fill us anew.

The Flow of the Spirit

I can testify of the Lord’s mercy. There have been seasons where I heard God’s voice but chose to walk in my own understanding. In those times of stagnation, the water stops bubbling. But the moment we submit, the Living Water begins to flow again like a mighty rushing wind.

Do not "quench the Spirit" (1 Thessalonians 5:19). When you feel that quickening in your soul, lean into it! We have a High Priest who understands our weaknesses because He faced every test we do (Hebrews 4:14-16). He isn't waiting to condemn you; He is waiting to offer mercy and grace to help you when you need it most.

Keep Your Lamp Prepared

As we wait for our King, we must be like the wise bridesmaids who carried extra oil (Matthew 25:4-7). Don’t let your light go out. Stay in the Word, stay in prayer, and stay in the "secret place."

The Lord is extraordinarily patient toward us, wishing for none to perish (2 Peter 3:9). Let us use this time to root ourselves so deeply in Him that nothing can pull us away.

Remain in Him, for He is your safe place.