His Cross Our HopeSampel

I struggle with Jesus’s command to stay connected to Him continually. I often fail at living this way. I tend to be a lone ranger, doing tasks without asking for help or depending on others. I attempt the impossible goal of living for God in my strength.

As Jesus prepared His disciples to continue their ministry after His death, He emphasized that they wouldn’t be able to do anything apart from Him. Eleven times in chapter fifteen He used the word, remain, also translated as abide. Means to stay attached to Him as a branch is to a vine.

Only Jesus’s power in us can produce real fruit. On our own, we can only pretend. Since remaining is so important, what does it look like? I think it means:

*My heart and mind are constantly drawn to Jesus.

*I talk to Him about everything.

*When I sin, I confess and seek His help.

*I think about truth from the Bible.

*I trust Him and seek to obey.

*I love Him and want a relationship with Him.

When I start ignoring Jesus and don’t pray, seek Him, or think about Scripture; when I go through my day doing what I want when I want without considering His will, I’m not dwelling in Him, and I won’t see spiritual growth.

The fruit of abiding is loving God above all and loving others as He loves us.

What a challenge for me! I’m so selfish and prideful. I must turn my focus to seeking Him above all, keeping my thoughts on Him, listening, obeying, and leaving the results to Him. He’s the one who produces the fruit.

Thank You, Jesus, for loving me! Please help me remain in You.

How can you stay connected with Jesus today?

~Susan Aken

Writer and blogger