Today’s Encouragement is, Jesus said, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 NLT
Do Nothing –
“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 NLT
Nothing or everything? At first glance, it seems there is a conflict, but a closer review shows that these statements align perfectly.
The key, as always, is Jesus!
Apart from Him, we can not do anything, but through Him, we can do everything!
He instructs us to “Remain” in Him, always attached to Him like a branch is attached to the vine. This is the absolute best way to live! Attached to, drawing life from, being nurtured and fed by Jesus. This isn’t limited to pious, perfect people; this relationship is His intention for all of us, His followers!
Now our earthly, human, logical minds want to argue (and don’t we always!). We think, “Wait, I can do things on my own! I can get up, sit down, brush my teeth, go to work, pay my bills!. Everyone, even those without Him, can do something! What does He mean that apart from me we can do nothing?”
God’s word is The Truth; it most often reveals the spiritual nature of God and of humankind. When examined by the imperfect analysis of our limited human logic, it seems wrong, faulty, illogical, and contradictory.
But when experienced (read and believed) through the spiritual nature, His Word is clearly perfect. Perspective does matter.
Thank You, Father, for providing us with The Truth, Jesus our Lord, Your Son. And that through Him, we can do everything!
The Great I Am Can
Brandon Lake
https://youtu.be/MANG9xexs4E?si=rxKT6WiQ-CD5bydR