Listen

“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch can’t produce fruit by itself, but must remain in the vine. Likewise, you can’t produce fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit. Without me, you can’t do anything.”

John 15:4-5

Think

Have you ever approached a big job by yourself? About seven years ago, I decided to write a book on faith. After talking with a prominent published author, I learned my odds of publication were not good. My author friend rightfully shared that I had no platform, no authority from which to speak. You see, I was not a theologian or even a pastor. Still, I had the desire to write and did so with the help of an exceptionally good editorial team.

Today’s verses tell us that bearing fruit comes when you remain in Christ, when you are part of the vine. If you stay the course when God calls you to an undertaking, you are remaining in the vine. I faced a big and uncertain task, but by God’s grace and with help from some friends, the book was published. Trust God to be with you in the big and small challenges you face. When God calls you to something, remain in the vine – follow God’s call with perseverance, determination, and a humble spirit.

Bill Ogletree

Question to Ponder:

How can you stay connected to God today?

Pray

God, your call on my life can seem challenging. In this day, secure me to your vine through prayer and readiness to serve you.

Amen.

Go

How can you bear fruit this day? “Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Doing so prepares you to bear God’s fruit.

Colossians 3:12