4 Biblical Lessons From Your Garden Sample

A Branch Can’t Bear Fruit Separated From The Plant

“I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing.” John 15:5 MSG

Using the image of a vine and a branch, Jesus tells us that unless we are in an intimate and organic relationship with Him, our lives cannot produce fruit. Sounds like a no-brainer to me, right?

Except, this idea of “abiding” doesn’t come naturally to me. According to Webster’s, to abide means to remain stable or fixed in a state. Jesus’ heart toward you is that you remain fixed at His side, not pulling away to run ahead or accomplish His will by your own effort. Simply rest in His love and trust His leading in your life.

I recently heard a pastor teach on John 15, and he pointed out that the word “abide” is used fifteen times in the first nine verses of that chapter. Wow. With that kind of emphatic repetition, we know that abiding is important to God. 

Take an honest inventory of your life and ask yourself, “am I abiding, resting, fully trusting Jesus, in each area; or am I working, striving, and trying to accomplish things - even good and godly things - by my own effort." Jesus’ finished work on the cross is enough for you, and you cannot add anything to what He has already done (Acts 17:25).

Instead of striving on your own, take time today to pray over the areas where you are tempted to move in your own strength. Your heavenly Father is always listening. He wants you to come to Him for help. Listen and obey what God is directing you in. He answers prayer and causes fruit to grow in our lives.

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