SUMMARY: The vine
OVERVIEW: Jesus is the vine, and we are the branches. We thrive when we stay connected to the vine.
BIG IDEA: If I live apart from Christ, I will produce nothing of eternal value.
KEY VERSE: John 15:5 (Jesus to disciples)
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.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Be at home in me. Welcome me to be at home in you. When you unpack your life and settle into me, you will realize there is no better way to live. Be relaxed in me and live intimately with me. Anything you do ‘good’ or ‘bad’ is worthless outside of me. It gets you nowhere. But, when you trust Christ to bring you to life and make you eternally secure, when you live the way I teach you to live, when you share my love with others, you become alive and productive in a way that profoundly impacts now and in the next life.
Apart from my direction and counsel, you will always face a temptation to live life on your own. Diligently resist that temptation. Cling to me tightly. I don’t just give life; I am life. I am all you need, and I want you to do more than breathe; I want you to thrive. Spend time with me and seek me throughout the day. I am with you and will not leave you or forsake you.
NEXT STEP
‘Remaining in Christ’ includes being obedient to him. How are you struggling to be obedient lately? Bad habits or wrong choices? Fear of following through on something God has asked you to do? Confess to a trusted friend. Ask for prayer and accountability. Thank God for his grace and life.
HUMOR
BONUS Lyric Video