Read:
John 15:5 “I am the vine and you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
Think:
Summer, the season of abundance, brings with it the anticipation of a bountiful harvest. It is a time when the earth generously offers us an array of sweet, sun-ripened peaches, juicy strawberries, refreshing watermelons, and luscious grapes. These delectable treats are the rewards of diligent labor, hours spent tending to the plants, watering, and weeding, all the while getting our hands dirty. The satisfaction we feel when our gardens yield a fruitful crop is unmatched.
In our spiritual lives, bearing fruit requires a key ingredient: remaining. It entails staying close, adhering to what we know to do. But what does it truly mean to "remain"? It is like the relationship between a vine and its branches. Just as a vine draws its sustenance and nutrients from its connection to the branch, we too must keep ourselves intimately connected to Jesus. It is in this closeness, this cultivated bond, that we find the ability to bear spiritual fruit.
Remaining in Jesus involves nurturing our relationship with him, seeking his presence, and following his teachings. We cultivate this connection through prayer, studying his Word,
worship, and fellowship with other believers. It is through these practices that we maintain our closeness to him, allowing his life-giving power to flow through us and produce fruit in our lives.
Just as a vine cannot bear fruit without being firmly attached to the branch, we cannot bear spiritual fruit unless we remain deeply rooted in Jesus. Our growth, transformation, and ability to make an impact in the world stem from this vital connection. It is through our intimate relationship with him that we find purpose, strength, and the ability to bear fruit that reflects his love, grace, and truth. Let us cultivate our close connection with him, nourish our souls with his Word, and allow His love to flow through us. In doing so, we will bear the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—revealing his presence in our lives and impacting those around us.
Apply:
Cultivate your connection with Jesus by prioritizing prayer, studying his Word, worship, and fellowship with other believers. Nurture your soul and allow his love to flow through you, bearing the fruits of the Spirit.
Pray:
Heavenly Father, help me to remain in you, to stay close and cultivate my connection with you. I want to bear fruit that reflects your love and grace in my life. Fill me with your Spirit, so I may impact the world around me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
