The Benefits of Staying Connected

Good Fruit 2064858589_d7b19bf6a9John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Looking at the branches that had been cut from the shrubs and piled and on the side of the street for garbage pickup, I was reminded that being disconnected from the LORD, I can do nothing nor produce anything of lasting value.  Jesus identified himself as “The Source” that produces life.   Being connected, taking up residence and living in the vine, Jesus Christ, gives life to everything that concerns you.  That is your relationships, health, safety, finances and everything.  Through Christ, you are given all things pertaining to life and godliness.  Just like the branches that had dried up on the street, Jesus tells us that even if we are connected to Him and are not producing good fruit, we will be taken away.  Salvation in Jesus Christ saves, but it does not negate our free will to produce good or evil fruit.  If we are bearing good fruit, He will purge us so that we may bring forth even more good fruit.” Jesus purges us with His word.  With every blessing comes an “if” clause.  Jesus said, “If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 7If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. … 10If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” (John 15:6,7,10)  Four notable things happen as a result of living in the Vine and producing good fruit:  1.) Father God is glorified.  2.) You can have what you ask according to His word.  3.) Jesus’ joy remains in you.  4.) His joy makes your joy complete.  Everyone can use some joy.  Stay connected with all your heart, soul, and strength for without that sacred connection, you can do nothing. 

Scripture References:  John 15:5-11; II Peter 1:3

Prayer for today:  Father, I acknowledge that I can do nothing without you.  Order my steps so that I may be connected to the VINE continually and produce good fruit in abundance.  In  JESUS name, AMEN. 

Whatever you must do today, there is a grace for that.  Accept the grace and make it a sweatless day.

Love

Dianne