The Secret to a Fruitful life.
Simply - Living the Uncluttered life. • Sermon • Submitted
0 ratings
· 122 viewsGrow yes Grow but Grow Organically… Need to pay attention to the process of Spiritual formation rather than the results..The main thing is to be connected to God's pipeline and allow God to take care of the Fruit...
Notes
Transcript
Sermon Tone Analysis
A
D
F
J
S
Emotion
A
C
T
Language
O
C
E
A
E
Social
Happy Mothers Day to all our mothers.. We thankful for each of you and your dedication to your homes and families…
Start out this morning by giving a shout out to all the mothers here… We thankful for you and your dedication to your homes and families…
On mothers day what we want to give
There is always mixed feelings that comes with Mothers Day… There is thankfulness for those of us that have mothers… but there is feelings of sadness…those who have lost loved ones.... Some have lost mothers..spouses and others have lost children… so mothers day comes with mixed feeling… but we also come to both remember and celebrate motherhood... that is the amazing role they have in the home and in the family...
I know as a parent you go through all the emotions of raising a family…There are some day that you feel you’ve got this --- You can keep up...You can do it… but then there other days when our energy gets depleted.... Then it so easy to start making comparisons with other parents…
What we can do is acknowledge and celebrate the role that mothers have in the role of our families.. .
acknowledge and celebrate the role that mothers have in the role of our families..
..
There are some days it feels like you really not
Summary: felt needs 1. Powerless.. Sense of failing.... 2. Sense of lost joy. 3. Sense of Disconnected. 4. Sense of unanswered prayers
One of the Extraordinary mothers in Church History was Suzanna Wesley - She was the wife of a minister named Samuel Wesley and the mother of John and Charles Wesley… Well known preacher and song writer and the founders of the Methodist Church… Sussana played a huge role in here children’s formative spiritual formation.
Susanna was the mother of 19 Children - she had 19 Children in 21 years…that was quite a feat... Suzannas’ life wasn’t easy.. Her family faced poverty and sickness… and disappointment - She lost 10 of her Children… but some how, she persevered.
the mother of John and Charles Wesley… the founders of the Methodist Church. Susanna was the mother of 19 Children - she had 19 Children in 21 years… that is something!! Suzannas’ life wasn’t easy.. Her family faced poverty and sickness… and disappointment - She lost 10 of her Children… Some how she persevered..
People who knew Suzanna marvelled at her ability to organize her home… She taught her children until the age of 5… Every afternoon she took one child into the privacy of her room and there shared them the things of the Christian faith…
John Wesley was Child number 15…
In 1701 the parsonage caught on fire…and there was one wall on the side of the stair case that served as a barricade and enabled most of the family to escape.... all were accounted for except John (Jackie)… He was missing in the burning inferno.. Fortunately a neighbor saw John standing in the window… and he was subsequently rescued with a ladder…
This was one of many miracles.... Susanna recognized that God had his hand upon John... She often called John a “brand plucked from the fire..
Susanna recognized that God that this was a miracle and that God had his hand upon John … Susanna often quoted and called John a “brand plucked from the fire..
and everyone of the children were accounted for except John … fortunately a neighbor saw John standing in the window… and he was subsequently rescued with a ladder… Susanna recognized that God had his hand upon John --- this was a miracle… She often quoted and called John a “brand plucked from the fire..”
fortunately a neighbor saw John standing in the window… and he was subsequently rescued with a ladder… Susanna recognized that God had his hand upon John --- this was a miracle… She often quoted and called John a “brand plucked from the fire..”
Taken from a scripture
God had his hand upon John … Susanna often quoted and called John a “brand plucked from the fire..
… and called John a “brand plucked from the fire..
Susanna’s Wesley’s life was not an easy life…but her life was a fruitful life… I think that we often get these two things mixed up… we confuse a fruitful life with an easy life… Susanna had to overcome difficulties that none of us would like to face.... but because of her faith two Continents…were changed with the fire of the Holy Spirit…
And the Lord said to Satan, “The Lord rebuke you, O Satan! The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is not this a brand plucked from the fire?”
Zac 3:2
but her life was a fruitful life…Because of here nuturing revival came to two Continents...
Because of here nuturing revival came to two Continents...
John Wesley was so impacted by his mothers words that on his tomb stone it reads…
Here lieth a brand plucked from the burning; a man rescued for a purpose.
As a parent you go through all the emotions of raising a family…There are some days that you feel you’ve got this --. but then there other days when our energy simply depleted....
How did this mother impact her Children… that brought revival to two Continents...
John Wesley was so impacted by his mothers words that the Eptha on his tomb stone read… “Here lies a brand plucked from the Fire.”
I know as a parent you go through all the emotions of raising a family…There are some days that you feel you’ve got this --- You can keep up...You can do all the housework, manage the homework..… but then there other days when our energy gets depleted....
Every afternoon she took one child into the privacy of her room and there shared with the child the finer things of the Christian faith… She was a woman of prayer… In those days woman had layers of clothing.
There are those days where you start looking around at other parents and making comparisons… There are some parents that seem to do everything just right… If we are going to make comparisons we should look at a role model like Susanna Wesley.
None of us would want to go through what Susanna went through…
Her life was not an easy life…None of us would want to go through what she went through…the loss of 10 children… poverty... difficulties.... Yet Susanna was a woman full of Grace… and her life bore fruit…
Hers was not an easy life but her life was a fruitful life…
ut her life was a fruitful life… I think that we often get these two things mixed up… we confuse a fruitful life with an easy life… Susanna had to overcome difficulties that none of us would like to face.... but because of her faith two Continents…were changed with the fire of the Holy Spirit
I think that we often get these two things mixed up… we confuse a fruitfulness with Success…everything just going well… There were days that nothing went right in Susannas house...
.... but because of her faith two Continents…were changed with the fire of the Holy Spirit
It was a challenge… it took faith and prayer… and because Susanna persevered.. two Continents…were changed with the fire of the Holy Spirit
So, what was the Secret of Susanna’s Wesley fruitfulness?
In those days woman wore layers of clothing. Susanna would often take the outer layer of her top— She would put it over her head and when did that the kids would learn you don’t bother Mama when she’s got her skirt over…
Susanna would often take the outer layer of her top— She would put it over her head and the kids would learn you don’t bother Mama when she’s got her skirt over…
John Wesley was saved from the burning fire… Suzanna saw that there was a plan and a future for John…
Susanna learned the Secret of Abiding..
Purpose.
Jesus final words to his disciples was that He would not leave them as Orphans but he would give them the Holy Spirit… He would teach them and bring back to remembrance the words he has spoken.... The Holy Spirit would be active in the believers life empower the disciples to be about His mission..
In the last few chapters of the book of John have the upper room discourse they have been called the farewell statements of Jesus… Jesus laid it out as simply as straight forward as possible…
Much of the Bible is communicating spiritual truth and spiritual truth can difficult to understand with just words. So often taught with Metaphors to clarify the truth in the minds of his disciples…In Jesus uses the metaphor of the vineyard… to describe life in the Holy Spirit...
There are themes that come up in his writings… and there are 3 words that come up with frequency..
The statements Jesus makes are central to the Gospel.… The author of the Gospel of John is John the beloved disciple of Jesus and he is also the author of four other books of the Bible… 123 John and Revelations.. If you look a the theme of his writing some words come up with frequency… for example the word..
John was the beloved disciple of Jesus and he is also the author of five books of the Bible…John, 123 John and Revelations.. There are themes that come up in his writings… and there are 3 words that come up with frequency..
Knowing 171 times
Father comes up 126 times
Love comes us 126 times
And this word Abiding comes up 40 times
The word Abide comes up 40 times and in our text in it comes up 11 times.
John knew the importance of spending time with the Savior… In he uses the word Abiding 11 times...
e
Knowing 171 times
Love comes us 126 times
Father comes up 126 times
Love comes us 126 times
You could say that knowing the Fathes love was top of his priority..
And this word Abiding
The word Abide comes up 40 times and in our text in it comes up 11 times.
Abide or abiding comes up 40 times
God has a plan and that is that you have been chosen for purpose.... And this plan is made plain to us through the Holy Spirit.
God has a plan and that is that you have been chosen for purpose.... And this plan is made plain to us through the Holy Spirit.
This is the Divine Perspective…that when we are in Christ… it is no longer a Master servant relationship but it is an inclusive relationship…
in where Jesus tells his disciples that they are no longer servants but friends.. With friendship comes
You are my friends if you do what I command you.
You are my friends if you do what I command you.
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Fifteen: Relationships and Responsibilities (John 15:1–17)
the Greek word means “a friend at court.” It describes that “inner circle” around a king or emperor. (In John 3:29, it refers to the “best man”, at a wedding.) The “friends of the king” would be close to him and know his secrets
John
The New American Commentary: John 12–21 (2) The Friends of Jesus and the Love Command: Thesis Statements on Discipleship (15:12–17)
servants/slaves are not expected to understand God’s will,
Jesus says those who are walking with God … are considered His friends… There is no higher honor than being called a friend of God.,
J.C. Ryle said,
“There is nobody so rich, so strong, so independent, so well off, so thoroughly provided for, as the person of whom Christ says, “This is my friend.”
PD201 Introducing Spiritual Formation Relationship
Friends is a being word, not a doing word. It speaks of relationship.
Friendship is a being word, not a doing word. It speaks of relationship.... Saint Francis of Assisi part of the monastic contemplative tradition often prayed “my God and My all.” He would anchor himself in the presence of God with that simple prayer… “My God and my all.
The Greek word for friend meant “a friend at court.” It describes that “inner circle” around a king or emperor. The “friends of the king” would be close to him and know his secrets .. Jesus said that he demonstrated his love when he laid down - Greater love has no one than this… that someone lay down his life for his friends… The relationship Changed ---
The “friends of the king” would be close to him and know his secrets -
God’s greatest desire for mankind is friendship - to know and be known…
a. Abraham was called a friend of God.
b. The Lord spoke to Moses as one spoke to a man.
They are being offered the understanding that comes from a different relationship—the relationship based on knowing and accepting the divine purpose in the coming of Jesus
Servants/slaves are not expected to understand the Kings plans and thoughts. Jesus is saying that you are in the inner circle… One of the greatest privileges we have as His friends is that of learning to know God better and “getting in on” God’s secrets....
The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.
Psalms
“Each of us is as close to God as we choose to be.”
The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Fifteen: Relationships and Responsibilities (John 15:1–17)
“Each of us is as close to God as we choose to be.
One of the greatest privileges we have as His friends is that of learning to know God better and “getting in on” God’s secrets.
We entered into this friendship by Grace…we didn’t have to do anything into God’s good graces… Jesus chose them...
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
John 15:16
John says that you have an anointing — that you have purpose… anointing alway comes with an appointment… God has a plan and that is that you have been chosen for purpose....
Jesus reminded His disciples that contrary to the common practice in Judaism of disciples picking their teacher, Jesus say I chose you… I have set you apart and chosen you to go and bare fruit…
Jesus then reminded them that contrary to the common practice of disciples picking a teacher, Jesus had chosen them
The word Go is missional language…Doesn’t matter where you are.... in fact you already among people…
it’s go into all the world and make disciples...
Go to the people in your world and simply love them....... .
The introduction of the idea of “going” at this point suggests that the fruit is something more than just character qualities in the disciples’ own lives, but rather involves fruit in the lives of others, i.e.
… We go, not because we are worthy, or equipped, or attractive, or skilled, or experienced, or in any way suitable and appropriate… We go because we have been chosen and commissioned for this task..
We go, not because we are worthy, or equipped, or attractive, or skilled, or experienced, or in any way suitable and appropriate
The purpose is to bare fruit… Now, Jesus talks qualifies the quality of the fruit… not just fruit… but fruit that remains or abides…
They have been chosen and commissioned for this task.. The purpose that they would bear fruit… fruit shall remain
God choses them for a purpose.. .
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
They have been called to the vocation of doing God’s will by loving other people and telling them about Christ’s ability to save them from their sins. They are commissioned for this task.
; .; ; and )
; .; ; and )
The NET Bible First Edition Notes Notes for 15:16
The introduction of the idea of “going” at this point suggests that the fruit is something more than just character qualities in the disciples’ own lives, but rather involves fruit in the lives of others, i.e.
John 15:16
Jesus warns them of opposition
This is the commission is to bare fruit....
But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.
And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be moved, but abides forever.
.. Jesus final words to his disciples was that He would not leave them as Orphans but he would give them the Holy Spirit… He would teach them and bring back to remembrance the words he has spoken.... The Holy Spirit would be active in the believers life.
There is nothing quite like a mothers love…
impression
Even though we are in the truth... we
need to be pruned... things that are unhelpful and unproductive...
God is interested in bumper harvests in our lives... more fruit...
We have been pronounced clean...
We have need for connectedness...
branch cannot bare fruit on its own...connection needs to Christ the vine... When you are abiding positive things happen... -
-
God is Glorified
Bumper Fruit..
Joy will be in you.. may be filled..
Abiding in Christs
Keeping the commandment to love others --
Summary: felt needs
1. Powerless..
Sense of failing....
2. Sense of lost joy.
3. Sense of Disconnected.
4. Sense of unanswered prayers
Impression - The Spirit filled life is marked by Abiding in the life Christ. This is the path to abundance and fruitfulness... We know the truth - not talking about Salvation but continuing in Christ.
Indication -
Grow yes Grow but Grow Organically… Need to pay attention to the process of Spiritual formation rather than the results..The main thing is to be connected to God's pipeline and allow God to take care of the Fruit...
Need to pay attention to the process of Spiritual formation rather than the results..
The main thing is to be connected to
God's pipeline and allow God to take care of the Fruit...
Indication...
Simply your Spiritual process..Stop stressing and start Trusting..Practice the art of Abiding - the art of Remaining...Abiding in the HSAbiding in ChristAbiding in the Fathers Love.Trust in the Lord..(psalms 125:1) Holy Stubbornness.
1. Pay attention to the Process of your own Spiritual Formation.
a. Connected to Christ through the Holy Spirit.
2. Practice the Art of Remaining
Immovable..
a. Real Fruit comes from remaining in the Real vine.
b. Abiding means knowing and praying his word.
c. God is glorified by your fruitfulness... Greatest Desire... God gets the glory...
because Fruit that will last honors God…
3. Place yourself in the Center of Christs Affections..
a. The Domino Affect.. Father has loved me I have loved you...Abide in that love..
love God and love others..
b. Joy levels
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.
The Message of John (ii) ‘So I Send You’—Discourse B (15:1–16:33)
Mission sooner or later leads into passion … Every form of mission leads to some form of cross … the very shape of mission is cruciform. We can understand it only in terms of the Cross.…’
“Mission sooner or later leads into passion … Every form of mission leads to some form of cross … the very shape of mission is cruciform. We can understand it only in terms of the Cross.…’ Douglas Webster
The last few chapters of the book of John have the upper room discourse they have been called the farewell statements of Jesus. They are statement Jesus makes that are central to the Gospel. be considered the literary bulls eye… the crux of what it means to be a follower of Jesus.
ingression
inspiration
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.
2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
T/s John desires the Followers of Jesus to know the secrets to a Fruitful life....John tells them to..
Knowing 171 times
Father comes up 126 times
Love comes us 126 times
indentation
interconnection _ There are three secrets to a Fruitful life..
And this word Abiding comes up 40 times
John knew the importance of spending time with the Savior… In he uses the word Abiding 11 times...
1. Pay attention to the Process of Spiritual Formation.
1. Pay attention to the Process of Spiritual Formation.
instruction
The Letters of John: An Introduction and Commentary a. Obedience, or the Moral Test (2:3–6)
Being a Christian consists in essence of a personal relationship to God in Christ, knowing him, loving him, and living in him as the branch lives in the vine (John 15:1ff.). This is the meaning of ‘eternal life
I don’t know too much about horticulture, but I have been learning a few things about grapevines - When it comes to fruitfulness it is more about the Vine than the branches… In order to branches to flourish they need to be attached to the vine… but it is not that branches are pulling or sucking the nutrients out of the vine…But Rather the vine is forcing its nutrients into the branches… that is what causes the branch to bear fruit… Without this kind of connection…we have no vital life force with which we can produce the fruit of the spirit..
What I have come to learn about grapevines is that it more about the Vine than the branches… the branches are not pulling the nutrients out of the vine…But Rather it is the vine that is forcing its essence into the branches so that the branches may bear fruit.
the branches are not pulling the nutrients out of the vine…But Rather it is the vine that is forcing its essence into the branches so that the branches may bear fruit.
the branches are not pulling the nutrients out of the vine…But Rather
have been learning a about grapevines is that it more about the Vine than the branches… In order to live branches need to be attached to the vine… but it is not that branches are not pulling or sucking the nutrients out of the vine…But Rather the vine is forcing its nutrients into the branches… that is what causes the branch to bear fruit… Without this kind of connection…we have no vital life force with which we can produce the fruit of the..
It is the vine that is forcing its essence into the branches so that the branches may bear fruit. This is the point that jesus is making that we need to be connected to Jesus. Without it, we have no élan vital—we don’t have any vital life force with which we can produce the fruit of the
This is the point that jesus is making that we need to be connected to Jesus. Without it, we have no élan vital—we don’t have any vital life force with which we can produce the fruit of the
Hence, the need to be connected to Jesus. Without it, we have no élan vital—we don’t have any vital life force with which we can produce the fruit of the
Jesus taught the disciples that their main purpose was to permit the life of Christ to flow through them in the production of fruit.
They were to bear fruit, more fruit, and much fruit (15:2, 8).
Our salvation involves, first, Christ dying for us and, second, Christ living in us and we living in Christ, united with him in his death and risen life. This is the vital union that is sustained by the Holy Spirit --- But there are two sides to the coin of Faith… Theirs divine side (God’s part) and by faith from our side.. (or our part)
from the divine side and by faith from our side..
-- It doesn’t matter how much you try you are not going to produce spiritual fruit with out this relationship… you can’t manufacture Spiritual fruit… Fruit is not mechanical it is organic in nature… and only God can produce the fruit of the Spirit …
WE FIND in this Chapter Our Part and God’s part ---We are responsible for Abiding and His part to produce the fruit.
His part to bare the fruit.
The question then is — What is my part of the Divine life?
This is what John is dealing with here…and He uses the term Abiding…in the Divine life… Let me define what I mean here..
John is the author of 5 books in the Bible… John…123 John.. Revelations.... I wondered what is it that John talks about the most… so I did a report search in my concordance and what i discovered… That Three words come up with Frequency in his Writing… The First word is the Word
And I did a word study and discovered… That Three words come up with Frequency in his Writing… The one word is the Word
FATHER.... comes up 171 times..
How Do we do our part of Abiding ?
Their main purpose was to permit the life of Christ to flow through them in the production of fruit. They were to bear fruit, more fruit, and much fruit (15:2, 8). This could only be accomplished through a constant cleansing and pruning of their lives. If they failed to respond to divine care, then they would forfeit their position of fruit bearing.
The word KNOW or Knowing comes 170 times
The Word LOVED or Loves comes 126 times
The common thread through John s writings Know the Fathers Love
t.... He is the beloved disciple writing about the love of God..
a. We Connect to Christ through the Holy Spirit.
Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs Salvation: Jesus Rescues His People from Sin
Our salvation involves, first, Christ dying for us and, second, Christ living in us (John 15:4; 17:26; Col. 1:27) and we living in Christ, united with him in his death and risen life (Rom. 6:3–10; Col. 2:12, 20; 3:1). This vital union, which is sustained by the Spirit from the divine side and by faith from our side
Jesus say I am the true Vine
He using a common example to hang this spirtual truth.
Jesus says I am the true Vine.
Israel’s terrain was ideal for vineyards, and you see them used throughout Scripture in narrative, poetic, and prophetic literature. Vineyards were seen as wise investments which provided sustenance to the owner - The proverbs 31 woman…
She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
In the Scriptures, Israel was compared to vineyard or a vine… …God invested in the nation of Israel... Out of all the nations in the world --- he said I am choosing the nation of Israel… to be the blessing to the world… (Gen 12)
The problem with Israel is that it became an wild vine… In There is this love song of the Vineyard..God’s vineyard… planted on fertile hillside… God used the best soil the best fines… built tower and winepress… Set up for Success… … but instead of baring a crop of good grapes it yielded only bad fruit..
That was the story of Israel…
Jesus tells us that He is the True vine…
Jesus claims to be the true vine..
There is the idea here of a contrast -
In Israel we have we had “incomplete” vine rather than with “falsehood.” In Israel we have partial disclosure and in Christ we have full disclosure.. Where Israel failed the Church will succeed because the Holy Spirit indwells the believer
Jesus says I am the Genuine Vine - the vine that can be trusted… and as long as you are connected… you will bear fruit…
The reason that the church will succeed where Israel failed is that the Holy Spirit indwells the believer
Jesus says I am the Genuine Vine - the vine that can be trusted… and as long as you are connected to the life source… you will bear fruit…
where the implied contrast appears to be with “incomplete” or “partial disclosure” rather than with “falsehood.”Jesus says I am the Genuine Vine - the vine that can be trusted… and as long as you are connected… you will bear fruit…
b. Submitted to the pruning process branches... (tree outside is getting pruned)
I hate to admit this but I did this once… I mistook the diesle pump for the gas pump… I stood there for a few seconds confused why the nozzle wouldn’t fit into my tank… Now thankfully I came to my senses… but in order to Abide… If we are going to experience the fulness of Abiding we have to connected to Christ...
b. Submitted to the pruning process branches... (tree outside is getting pruned)
Abiding or being connected to Christ means submitting ourselves to a pruning process…
means submitting ourselves to a pruning process…
It seem counter intuitive… that when cut off a section of the vine that…it is going to produce health… But pruning encourages more fruit to grow.. In fact vines need regular pruning; failure to prune a vine resulted in the growth of more leaves and branches..
Discipleship means submitting to a pruning process… To encourage more fruit to grow, vines needed regular pruning; failure to prune a vine resulted in the growth of more leaves and branches..
NT221 The Wisdom of John: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary on Johannine Literature An Oracle of Judgment
There’s nothing there about eternal security of God’s people, and there’s nothing here about it either. You have to remain in the vine. You have to remain in Christ. You have to obey Christ’s commandments, or else God can lop you off. It’s an image of apostasy and then judgment that’s in Isa 5 and John 15 here
NT221 The Wisdom of John: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary on Johannine Literature An Oracle of Judgment
Now notice, these branches are in Christ, and yet God is going to prune them and eliminate them if they do not bear fruit.
Father pruning the branches is a picture of Divine care — If we refuse Divine Pruning we forfeit our position of fruit bearing.
I am simply going to give you my opinion and let you wrestle with this truth.. I believe that believers are eternally secure when you remain in Him… You can have assurance of Salvation because you are in him - because we have the guarantee.
You are eternally secure when you remain in Him… In other word
that is I believe You are eternally secure when you remain in Him… You can have assurance because you are in him because we have the guarantee
By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.
In other words their is no such thing as Cheap grace.. where you said prayer… and you got your membership badge…but there is no sanctification in our lives...
In other words their is no such thing as Cheap grace.. where you said prayer… and you got your membership badge...
To encourage more fruit to grow, vines needed regular pruning; failure to prune a vine resulted in the growth of more leaves and branches..
vines needed regular pruning; failure to prune a vine resulted in the growth of more leaves and branches..
If they failed to respond to divine care, then they would forfeit their position of fruit bearing.
Discipleship means submitting to a pruning process…
- Vineyard dresses and Gardeners are caretakers…Pruning is part of Divine care — … .
This is a picture of Divine care — Christ the Vine and the Father is the vinedresser…
Pruning encourages growth… in fact failure to prune resulted in more leaves and branches...
How does God prune us?
Most of us already know too much about this
A. God uses people to prune us
There are certain people that come into our lives and for some reason they have an edge to them… Maybe you have worked for someone like this… God uses people to work on our rough edges… God has uses people in a positive way too.... Mentors and leaders that God can use to help agitate spiritual Growth...
There are certain people that come into our lives and they have an edge to them… Maybe you have worked for someone like this… I have had couple of bosses that just gave me all the worst jobs possible....
God uses people to work on our rough edges… God has uses people in a positive way too.... He uses pastors..Mentors and leaders to agitate spiritual Growth…
2. These are often people who themselves have not developed the fruit of the Spirit that we are working on developing..
Pruning does not simply mean spiritual surgery that removes what is bad. It can also mean cutting away the good and the better so that we might enjoy the best. Yes, pruning hurts, but it also helps. We may not enjoy it, but we need it.
B. God uses problems to prune us
B. God uses problems to prune us
1. Some problems that we dealing with are brought on by ourselves… You didn’t budget… you messed up.... but we need to thank God.... that is not the end that God uses our mistakes to grow...
2. There problems that come upon us outside our control—we are dealing here with the circumstances of life… Things can change in our lives… and they are out of our control...
C. God uses pressures to prune us
Sometimes presures comes into our lives … we feel that maybe we are going to be crushed by the pressure… Paul went through tremendous pressure… We are told in that Paul was stoned and his body was dragged into the city — and he was left for dead.... when the disciples gathered around him.... we are told what they did… but assume they prayed… And we are told that he got up.. says in Corinthians…
says in Corinthians…
But...we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
But...we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
Believing God Chapter 10
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
But...we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
2. There is a sense in which all pressure is self-created...
2 Cor
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;
Sermon Outlines on Gospel Passages Cooperate in the Pruning (John 15:1–8)
Most of us already know too much about this
A. God uses people to prune us
1. This involves all the ugly things people do to us and say about us
2. These are often people who themselves have not developed the fruit of the Spirit that we are working on developing
B. God uses problems to prune us
1. The problems that we bring on ourselves
2. The problems that come upon us outside our control—we are dealing here with the circumstances of life
C. God uses pressures to prune us
1. This has to do with the ways in which we respond to problems
2. There is a sense in which all pressure is self-created
English Standard Version Chapter 4
8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Fifteen: Relationships and Responsibilities (John 15:1–17)
Pruning does not simply mean spiritual surgery that removes what is bad. It can also mean cutting away the good and the better so that we might enjoy the best. Yes, pruning hurts, but it also helps. We may not enjoy it, but we need it.
We have three things that
God uses People… He uses Problems and he uses pressure to prune his people… This is part of the process of Sanctification… spiritual formation.. The good news is that God isn’t finished with me yet… each of us under construction…
Spiritual formation take time.. Sanctification is a process…
Spiritual formation take time…
Gardeners are caretakers...
God isn’t finished with me yet… each of us under construction…we are work of art in progress.
Another amazing woman in recent history is Ruth Graham - She was a dynamic Christian. Billy often said that she was a much greater Christian than he was.
Ruth Graham was a dynamic Christian. She accomplished a great deal and wrote beautiful books and poems from her log home in the mountains of North Carolina. She personally planned and supervised the construction of her mountain home and had it built from local stone and logs. She named it Little Piney Cove. Everyone who knew her agreed she was a remarkable woman. Billy would frequently say she was a much greater Christian than he.
She accomplished a great deal and wrote beautiful books and poems from her log home in the mountains of North Carolina. She personally planned and supervised the construction of her mountain home and had it built from local stone and logs. Everyone who knew Ruth agreed she was a remarkable woman.
In Charlotte at the Billy Graham library you will find her grave stone which is simple and rough. None of her accomplishments are listed there. Accept one little phrase.. -
Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.
“End of Construction Thank you for patience.” Ruth Graham
On day Ruth saw a road sign the read - “End of Construction Thank you for patience.”
I love what Billy Grahams wife --- Ruth has as empha — “End of Construction Thank you for patience.”
Ruth saw that sign one day and wanted it on her tombstone...
That is what she chose to be remembered by…
John Prays that
God uses the pruning process… Vineyards can take up to four to five years to mature… but it takes Abiding..
Father pruning the branches is a picture of Divine care — If we refuse Divine Pruning we forfeit our position of fruit bearing.
If we refuse Divine Pruning we forfeit our position of fruit bearing.
To encourage more fruit to grow, vines needed regular pruning; failure to prune a vine resulted in the growth of more leaves and wood
Vineyards can take up to four to five years to mature…
Jesus didn’t just ask us to Abide… He uses the imperative Abide in me…
Jesus didn’t says ask God if you may abide in Me… He simply says Abide in me… There is our part and there is God’s part. Our part is to come before Him and Abide…
Jesus didn’t says ask God if you may abide in Me… He simply says Abide in me… There is our part and there is God’s part. Our part is to come before Him and Abide…
There is God’s part… That there is no difficulty that we face in life that he won’t provide a way of escape… Our part is to come before Him and Abide…
Oswald Chambers says…
The Moral Foundations of Life (c) The Mystical Phase (John 15:4)
We must get alone in secret and think, screw our minds down and not allow them to wool-gather. Difficult? Of course it is difficult to begin with, but if we persevere we shall soon take in all the straying parts of our mental life
2. Practice the Art of Remaining
Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day…
Why would one make the effort to develop a devotion in our lives…
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
john 15:
Failure to abide in the Vine can only lead to failure in fruit bearing. Independence of the branches from the Vine (disciples from Jesus) necessarily means becoming fruitless.
Failure to abide in the Vine can only lead to failure in fruit bearing. Independence of the branches from the Vine (disciples from Jesus) necessarily means becoming fruitless.
We are not simply handicapped or hindered. We are hopelessly paralyzed! We can do nothing!
But if we abide in Him, if we stay close to the throne, we can do anything that He commands us to do!
What a privilege—and what a responsibility!
implementation
T/s
inspiration
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.
If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
interconnection
interconnection
T/s There are three secrets to a Fruitful life..
1. Pay attention to the Process of Spiritual Formation
2. Practice the Art of Remaining
2. Practice the Art of Remaining
Jesus says to his followers....Abide in me or “Step into union with me...”
instruction
The Art of Remaining is building Healthy Habits.
Have you ever decided to read the word or pray regularly and as sit down you mind starts to wonder … think about everything under the sun…
The word Abide or remain is the same word used for living in a house. The idea is that we don’t just visit the Word for 10 minutes a day… but rather we meditate on the word and we think about things through out the day… We let the word fill us and change the way that we thing about life… and the way we think about ourselves and others… The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day…
Jesus says to his followers....Abide in me or “Step into union with me...” It’s written as an imperative meaning that the only way to spiritual fruitfulness is from this vital spirtual connection with Christ. Christianity is about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ… its more that an idea or a sentiment… it knowing Jesus and being known by Jesus… Fruit bearing for the disciple is totally dependent on a direct connection to Jesus. Attachment to Jesus or abiding in him is, therefore, the sine quo non of Christian discipleship… Jesus says remain in me as I remain in you.
The Moral Foundations of Life (c) The Mystical Phase (John 15:4)
We must get alone in secret and think, screw our minds down and not allow them to wool-gather. Difficult? Of course it is difficult to begin with, but if we persevere we shall soon take in all the straying parts of our mental life
Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day…
Jesus says to his followers....Abide in me or “Step into union with me...”
“Abide in me” is written as an imperative meaning that the only way to spiritual fruitfulness is from this vital spirtual connection with Christ.
Abide in me … because apart from me you can do nothing!
What does that really mean, "Apart from me, you can do nothing"? In reality, we can do a lot apart from the vine. We can have a career. We can raise families. We can preach a sermon. We can make billions of dollars. We can climb Everest. We can put a man on the moon. We can do all of these things in our own capacity. And they can even go very well. So why does Jesus say, "Apart from me, you can do nothing"? There is one thing we can't do on our own, apart from Christ. We can't produce fruit if we are disconnected from the vine. Branches can't do that. We can't produce the obedience and righteousness that pleases God if we are not connected to Christ.
Can I Have Joy in My Life? Life through the Vine
without a strong connection to Christ, who is the power supply, we will be completely fruitless.
Without a strong connection to Christ, who is the power supply, we will be completely fruitless.
Christianity is about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ… its more that an idea or a sentiment… it knowing Jesus and being known by Jesus…
Fruit bearing for the disciple is totally dependent on a direct connection to Jesus. Attachment to Jesus or abiding in him is, therefore, the sine quo non of Christian discipleship… Jesus says remain in me as I remain in you.
There is a mutual abiding or indwelling.
Bible Study Magazine, Volume 10 Study like a Pro: Jesus and Jesus’ Words: Logos 7 Helps You Stay Engaged with Scripture
New Testament scholar Andreas Köstenberger comments that “mutual indwelling involves more than just obedience (though certainly no less); it also entails a growing absorption of Jesus’ teaching.
The life circulates through the branches, just as they perpetuate the living connection between the branch and the centre of the life.
New Testament scholar Andreas Köstenberger comments that
“mutual indwelling involves more than just obedience (though certainly no less); it also entails a growing absorption of Jesus’ teaching.
The Greek word translated as “abide” here is meno. It also can be translated as “remain” or “stay.” It is the same word used for living in a house. There are three ways we can abide..
Abiding in The Word..
The Art of Remaining is building Healthy Habits.
The Greek word translated as “abide” here is meno. It also can be translated as “remain” or “stay.” It is the same word used for living in a house. The idea is that we don’t just visit the Word for 10 minutes a day… but rather we meditate on the word and we think about things through out the day… We let the word fill us and change the way that we think about life… and the way we think about ourselves and others… Abiding is about living in the mode of prayer… Brother Lawrence talks about Practicing the presence of God in the mundane activities of life... The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
The idea is that we don’t just visit the Word for 10 minutes a day… but rather we meditate on the word and we think about things through out the day… We let the word fill us and change the way that we think about life… and the way we think about ourselves and others…
Abiding in His Presence
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day…
Extract from a letter to the Rev. J. R. W. Stott from a young architect in March 1967: “I am basking, nay wallowing drunkenly in ; at the moment. I must have read these words and thrilled over them so many times, yet still they set the heart on fire.”
is the same word used for living in a house. The idea is that we don’t just visit the Word for 10 minutes a day… but rather we meditate on the word and we think about things through out the day… We let the word fill us and change the way that we think about life… and the way we think about ourselves and others… The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
Abiding in His Presence
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
Failure to abide in the Vine can only lead to failure in fruit bearing. Independence of the branches from the Vine (disciples from Jesus) necessarily means becoming fruitless.
The Preacher’s Notebook: The Collected Quotes, Illustrations, and Prayers of John Stott Basking in John 14–15
Extract from a letter to the Rev. J. R. W. Stott from a young architect in March 1967: “I am basking, nay wallowing drunkenly in John 14; 15 at the moment. I must have read these words and thrilled over them so many times, yet still they set the heart on fire.”
We are not simply handicapped or hindered. We are hopelessly paralyzed! We can do nothing!
But if we abide in Him, if we stay close to the throne, we can do anything that He commands us to do!
Abiding in His Presence
We let the word fill us and change the way that we think about life… and the way we think about ourselves and others… The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
Saint Francis of Assisi part of the monastic contemplative tradition often prayed “my God and My all.” He would anchor himself in the presence of God with that simple prayer… “My God and my all.... We sang this morning God of our Everything…
Brother Lawrence talks about Practicing the presence of God in the mundane activities of life...
Outcome of abiding:
Abiding in Prayer
… Brother Lawrence talks about Practicing the presence of God in the mundane activities of life... The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....
The apostle Paul talks about praying with our ceasing… what does that look like… it means practicing the presence of God....Effective prayer is based on faith in Christ and on His words remaining in believers. Christ’s words condition and control such a believer’s mind so that his prayers conform to the Father’s will. Since his prayer is in accord with God’s will,
Effective prayer is based on faith in Christ and on His words remaining in believers. Christ’s words condition and control such a believer’s mind so that his prayers conform to the Father’s will. Since his prayer is in accord with God’s will,
b. Abiding means knowing and praying his word.
Effective prayer is based on faith in Christ and on His words remaining in believers. Christ’s words condition and control such a believer’s mind so that his prayers conform to the Father’s will. Since his prayer is in accord with God’s will, the results are certain—it will be given you
Effective prayer is based on faith in Christ and on His words remaining in believers. Christ’s words condition and control such a believer’s mind so that his prayers conform to the Father’s will. Since his prayer is in accord with God’s will, the results are certain—it will be given you
The reason why prayer is answered when we are abiding is that we will be praying according to God’s will.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day…
Outcome of abiding:
c. God is glorified by your fruitfulness... Greatest Desire... God gets the glory...
illustration
implementation
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day
ingression
Abiding is going to affect our inner joy and also our responses to others..
inspiration
9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
john 15:
T/s There are three secrets to a Fruitful life..
1. Pay attention to the Process of Spiritual Formation
2. Practice the Art of Remaining
3. Place yourself in the Center of Christs Affections.
3. Place yourself in the Center of Christs Affections.
instruction
There is a Domino Affect.. when you place your life in the hands of the Divine Caregiver… Jesus said that...
Father has loved me I have loved you… We see in Jesus the love of God… There is no greater love than one lay down your life for another.... That is the love of Father… Jesus says ...
Abide in that love… remain in that love… the remaining is the obedience piece…
Abiding in Christ demands worship, meditation on God’s Word, prayer, sacrifice, and service— Once you have begun to cultivate this deeper communion with Christ.. you will notice that yourJoy levels will go up…
Obedience is placing yourself in the center of God’s affections…
what happens is that you
The outcome is loving God and loving others..
In Paul declared that..
loving God and love others..
17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
b. Joy levels will go up.
Paul declared that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men”
().
One of the Keys to joy is having your Orbit around the Kingdom of God… We are constantly being pulled by the gravitational pull of this world and the pleasures of this world… Where true and lasting joy comes from the Holy Spirit…
Breaking Free Chapter 46
Paul declared that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men” (Rom. 14:17–18).
The wine of joy will eventually flow from the fruit of peace produced by righteousness. “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (Ps. 30:5, KJV). God will look on you in the full harvest of your obedience, and
1. focus on spiritual growth as a top priority ();
2. accept one another in love just as Christ has accepted us ();
3. take care of one another in love without crossing over the line into parenting or taking inappropriate responsibility for solving the problems of others ();
4. treat one another with respect in both speech and action ();
5. keep our commitments to the group—including attending regularly, doing the homework, and keeping confidences whenever requested (, ).
s
1. Dates
Sticky Church 3. Sample Growth Group Covenant
1. focus on spiritual growth as a top priority (Romans 8:29);
2. accept one another in love just as Christ has accepted us (Romans 15:7);
3. take care of one another in love without crossing over the line into parenting or taking inappropriate responsibility for solving the problems of others (John 13:34);
4. treat one another with respect in both speech and action (Ephesians 4:25–5:2);
5. keep our commitments to the group—including attending regularly, doing the homework, and keeping confidences whenever requested (Psalm 15:1–2, 4b).
Guidelines and Covenant
1. Dates
Breaking Free Chapter 46
Paul declared that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men” (Rom. 14:17–18).
The wine of joy will eventually flow from the fruit of peace produced by righteousness. “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (Ps. 30:5, KJV). God will look on you in the full harvest of your obedience, and
“The delightful divine merriness of the Christians, which originates in the Son and is deposited in his disciples, is matured and perfected as they love one another, undergo persecution, and readily lay down their lives for the brethren” Hoskyns’ comment:
There is a reason to Rejoice..
implementation
ingression
interconnection
imploration
God has a plan and that is that you have been chosen for purpose.... And this plan is made plain to us through the Holy Spirit.
From he Divine Perspective…that when we are in Christ… it is no longer a Master servant relationship but it is an inclusive relationship…
You are my friends if you do what I command you.
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
Jesus says those who are walking with God … are considered His friends… There is no higher honor than being called a friend of God.,
J.C. Ryle said,
“There is nobody so rich, so strong, so independent, so well off, so thoroughly provided for, as the person of whom Christ says, “This is my friend.”
Friendship is a being word, not a doing word. It speaks of relationship....
The Greek word for friend meant “a friend at court.” It describes that “inner circle” around a king or emperor. The “friends of the king” would be close to him and know his secrets .. Jesus said that he demonstrated his love when he laid down - Greater love has no one than this… that someone lay down his life for his friends… The relationship Changed ---
God’s greatest desire for mankind is friendship - to know and be known…
a. Abraham was called a friend of God.
interconnection
b. The Lord spoke to Moses as one spoke to a man.
c. Jesus referred to Lazarus as our friend.
Jesus say to his disciples that he no longer calls them servants but they enjoy new relationship of friends.. New confidence...
Servants/slaves are not expected to understand the Kings plans and thoughts. Jesus is saying that you are in the inner circle… One of the greatest privileges we have as His friends is that of learning to know God better and “getting in on” God’s secrets....
The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.
We entered into this friendship by Grace…we didn’t have to do anything into God’s good graces… Jesus chose them… vrs 16
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
Jesus reminded His disciples that contrary to the common practice in Judaism of disciples picking their teacher, Jesus say I chose you… I have set you apart and chosen you to go and bare fruit…
The word Go is missional language…Doesn’t matter where you are.... in fact you already among people…
Go to the people in your world and simply love them....... .
… We go, not because we are worthy, or equipped, or attractive, or skilled, or experienced, or in any way suitable and appropriate… We go because we have been chosen and commissioned for this task..
The purpose is to bare fruit… Now, Jesus talks qualifies the quality of the fruit… not just fruit… but fruit that remains or abides…
because Fruit that will last honors God…
imploration
How is it with your soul - Are you abiding in Him?
Today, when you look at your life, and the lives of those closest to you, do you see fruit and abundance? Or do you see another picture? Are you like a dried-up branch, devoid of any good works that speak of a godly source? Do your relationships suffer because you are at the center, not Jesus?
Throughout the trials you face—whether big or small—cling to Jesus as the source and giver of life. May you remain in His love. And may His love fill you with abundance and cause you to bear fruit for His kingdom.
Conclusion
Conclusion
John W. Gardner, former Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Lyndon Johnson
"We can keep ourselves so busy, fill our lives with so many diversions, stuff our heads with so much knowledge, involve ourselves with so many people, and cover so much ground that we never have time to probe the fearful and wonderful world within … By middle life most of us are accomplished fugitives from ourselves."
John W. Gardner, former Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Lyndon Johnson
.
Today, when you look at your life, and the lives of those closest to you, do you see fruit and abundance? Or do you see another picture?
Maybe today you are feeling
1. Powerless.. Sense of failing....
2. Sense of lost joy.
3. Sense of Disconnectedness.
4. Sense of that God is not listening
imploration
Encourage you to seek out a deeper relationship with God… Seek out an Abiding relationship…
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day
Oswald Chambers describes the process of forming healthy habits as coming to the same ditch every day… One has to make a fresh resolve … need to take 10 paces back and make a fresh run…every day there is no such thing as accumulation of resolve… Every day is a new day
Today, when you look at your life, and the lives of those closest to you, do you see fruit and abundance? Or do you see another picture? Are you like a dried-up branch, devoid of any good works that speak of a godly source? Do your relationships suffer because you are at the center, not Jesus?
Throughout the trials you face—whether big or small—cling to Jesus as the source and giver of life. May you remain in His love. And may His love fill you with abundance and cause you to bear fruit for His kingdom.
How does your life bear fruit?