I am the Vine; you are the branches.
Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit…
John 15:5
What a wonderful thought: I am a branch. And what an amazing promise: “Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit” (NLT).
It seems that most of the time when I hear teaching on John 15, the focus is on the pruning. And, yes, pruning is a vital part of being a branch. But beyond the pruning, the purpose is fruit. Our future in Christ is so full of hope and promise. Ephesians 5:9 promises that the light of God will produce in us every form of goodness, truth, and uprightness of heart.
Sometimes we are just going along, day to day, loving God, and obeying one step at a time. Then, suddenly, we look up and see ripe fruit in our lives we didn’t even know was there. This fruit could be a change in attitude, a new compassion, deeper faith, greater wisdom, or less interest in the things of the world.
The [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like the palm tree
[be long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful];
they shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic, stable, durable, and incorruptible].
Planted in the house of the Lord, they shall flourish in the courts of our God.
[Growing in grace] they shall still bring forth fruit in old age;
they shall be full of sap [of spiritual vitality] and [rich in the] verdure [of trust, love and contentment]. [They are living memorials] to show that the Lord is upright and faithful to His promises…
Psalm 92:12-15
What an outlook! When we remain in Christ and his life flows through us, we will bear fruit. Change will happen. Our Father will be greatly glorified. Thank you, Father, for this abundant life.
Craving more positive encouragement? Check Out Doorways of Desire
Learn more about author Amy Layne Litzelman
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