Theme of the Week: The Lord Is With You
Bible Verse: “I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit: apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15: 4 NIV
Scripture Reading: John 15:1-8
In the Sermon on the Mount, as it is known, Jesus addresses the various emotions that can affect our life. And he instructs us not to succumb to these emotions. Rather, we are to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” (Matt 6:25-33)
Essentially, Jesus is saying, “Do not worry.” These words are very reassuring coming from Jesus. However, in uncertain times, worry, anxiety, fear and anger can all cloud our minds, causing us to focus on ourselves rather than seeking God’s kingdom.
To help us focus, Jesus teaches that he is the path to the Lord’s kingdom by being connected to him. (John 15:1-3) But it is conditional. We must be connected like a branch is to a vine. (John 15:4-5)
As we have learned this week, the first step of preparation to living a life of purpose is to recognize our reliance on the Lord. Then doing what is obvious and building wisdom to make the best guess are great skills and important components for all believers.
But a life of purpose is incomplete without being continually connected to Jesus. This is a living union that is required. Without it, there is nothing. Jesus is very clear that since he is the vine and we are the branches, not being connected to him is like a branch disconnected from a vine. It can bear no fruit. Eventually, its leaves wither and fall off. But when connected, a branch can bear much fruit. By “remaining” or “abiding” in Jesus, disciples of Jesus will bear much fruit, and our fruit-bearing will accomplish a life of purpose, glorifying the Lord. (John 15:8)
Our connection to Jesus is strengthened by prayer and reading the Word, by his love for you and your love for Him. With the Holy Spirit empowering you and your willingness to produce fruit, you can move forward and make a godly impact, knowing that the Lord is with you.
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