Scripture:
“’Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.’” (John 15:4-5)
Reading:
Imagine you are on a peaceful walk through your favorite outdoor spot. The air is fresh, the scenery is breathtaking, and you feel completely at ease. As you walk, you notice you are in perfect step with someone beside you — Jesus. You have been talking and listening, enjoying His company. In a warm, steady voice, He says to you, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
What is your reaction?
We may hear these words as a warning, perhaps even a threat. But considering the nature of Christ — full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22) — perhaps these words are better understood as a blessing.
Just as a branch severed from a vine cannot bear fruit, we cannot glorify God when our hearts are far from Jesus. And that, friends, is actually the most freeing truth we can hear! When our hearts are close to Christ, we bear fruit that resembles Jesus as if He were living our lives.
Jesus said, “When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.” (John 15:8)
So, what does it mean to be a true disciple? At that time, it was said disciples walked so close to their teacher that they were covered in the dust their rabbi kicked up. Keep in mind, Jesus had many followers, but His true disciples were deeply connected to Him, devoting their lives to learning from His every action.
Jesus, the true vine, is our source. What an encouragement this is: We do not have to do this on our own! As you remember Christ’s presence — drawing close to Him, seeking His guidance, and obeying His Word — He will honor you. He will transform you into a true disciple and do what you could never do on your own. He will glorify God, making an eternal impact through you.
Your Turn:
1. Is there a command of Jesus’ you know you need to obey? Ask God for grace and take a step in that direction.
2. Throughout your day recalibrate yourself toward Jesus, perhaps at the beginning of a task or before you enter a room. Devote yourself to Him and ask for His guidance.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You are the vine, and I am a branch. I trust You and ask for grace to abide in Your love, obeying You. Teach me how to be a true disciple. Bear much fruit through my life revealing God to those around me. I ask this for Your glory, Lord. I love You back. Amen.