Abide in Christ

Spiritual Vitamin: "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." John 15:5

Challenge: It is when we abide in Christ and Christ in us, that we bear much fruit. So often we attempt things in our human flesh, not with God at our side. What does it mean to abide? Brian Hedges writes "Abiding in Jesus means we have a life giving connection to him. A branch is connected to the vine, and a vine to the branch. Secondly, we're dependent upon Him. Without the vine, the branch is useless, lifeless and powerless. Thirdly, it involves continuance. Abide (Greek, meno) means to remain, or stay or continue. Are you remaining in Jesus throughout your day? (Brian Hedges, What does it mean to Abide in Christ?, Christianity.com.)

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this brilliant illustration of the believer's relationship with You in the vine and the branches. Lord, I'm enthralled with this picture of us abiding (remaining) in you. How I long to be dependent upon you in everything I do. Without You, I like the branch is powerless. Help me reside in You today. Help me stay near You. Show me what it's like to enjoy such a constant relationship with You. Amen.