Day 2 | Abide in Me that You Might Bear Fruit

Command:

Abide in Me, and I will abide in you. A branch cannot bear fruit if it is disconnected from the vine, and neither will you if you are not connected to Me. John 15:4 (NIV)

Read:

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. John 15:16 (NIV)

Reflect:

Last week we took our Grandson to race go-carts on his last day of summer break. Each time he completed a lap, I was there to take photos and give a thumbs up as he passed the other carts. When the race came to an end, I noticed all the carts slowed at the same time. The track manager used a shutdown transponder to control all the cars. No matter how hard the drivers pressed on the accelerator, they could not increase their speed without the manager’s assistance.

Recently, my life slowed down due to health issues. I was blessed with more time to connect with Jesus and reflect on my life. In slowing down, I could see that the way of fruitfulness is to connect with the Lord first in everything I do. He will then use my life in ways beyond my limitations. 

At times I made my life as a Christian about speed. I packed service opportunities into my life and then squeezed in time to connect with the source of my power: Jesus. As events were added to my schedule, the speed of life increased. I focused on doing rather than abiding. With every opportunity, I increased my speed and decreased my connection to Jesus.

Rather than squeezing more into my schedule, I now realize abiding in Christ is the most important factor in producing the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5). My connection to the Lord is what provides me everything I need to bear fruit. Jesus makes all the difference.

React:

Slow down. Breathe. Spend time connecting with Jesus today. Quiet your soul and ask the Lord to speak to your heart as you read your Bible and pray.

Pray:

Jesus, thank you for being patient with me as I fill my schedule before I fill myself with you. Show me the way to abide in you so my life will be fruitful beyond my earthly limitations.