Today’s Encouragement is, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.” John 15:5a NLT
Remain In Me –
Jesus essentially says, “Stick with me, and you’ll have a productive, useful life.” Remaining in Him means growing in relationship with Him, much like any relationship deepens over time.
Just knowing another person, talking with them occasionally, knowing each other’s name, and a little about them, doesn’t produce a relationship.
Relationships grow with time and intention. Honesty is essential. When we invest in a relationship, we allow ourselves, to some degree, to become vulnerable to the other person—telling them the truth about ourselves, a process that unfolds over time. Relationships grow with time and honesty, remaining with each other.
This relationship is Jesus’ offer and intention: His desire and invitation for us to grow in relationship with Him. Notice also He does the hard part; the vine supports and nourishes the branch. The branch receives its life from the vine and produces fruit; it also returns life-giving nourishment to the vine.
Father God, help us to remain in Jesus, to grow in relationship with Him, and so be healthy, well-nourished, and produce the fruit You designed us for.
Abide
Aaron Williams
https://youtu.be/BLDEt9KP2O0?is=lt187NP2Y8MAf4y_