If you pay close attention, it doesn’t take long to see that we live in a culture that is constantly pushing for more and more and more. The popular word of the day is “busy”. And boy, are we busy. It’s just too easy to get caught up in it all.
We need to hear and heed Jesus when He tells us to abide. Get out of the busyness that is around us and come back to Him. He wants us to start with Him first, abiding in Him, and He abiding in us. This is the key to a healthy spiritual life. Obeying Jesus in abiding.
In John 15, Jesus gives us a picture that explains how spiritual growth takes place in our lives. He speaks of a vine, a gardener, and branches. For those listening to Him that day, this imagery was very familiar. Israel was often described in the Old Testament as a vineyard, one that failed to bear the fruit God desired. When Jesus says He is the true vine, He is making a clear statement. He is everything Israel was meant to be. He is fully connected with the Father’s will. His life is fruitful, above and beyond.
Jesus also introduces us to the Gardener, His Father. The Gardener cultivates His garden. He knows exactly when to prune, when to wait, and how to care for every branch. It’s important to understand the relationship between the vinedresser, the vine, and the branches because it teaches us we are not the source. We are not the ones in charge of producing results. Our calling is much simpler. Abide, and receive life from the vine.
This is a hard truth to apply because it runs counter to the culture we live in, where self-sufficiency is king. Jesus is saying to you, right now, that without Him, you can do nothing. Never forget that. Activity that is disconnected from Christ will never produce lasting spiritual fruit.
Jesus also makes it clear that not all branches experience the same work from the Gardener. Branches that are not truly connected are removed. Branches that are bearing fruit are pruned. Pruning is never comfortable, but it always benefits in the long run. The Father knows what needs to be removed so that further growth will occur.
Over time, the fruit begins to show. You become more loving, more patient, more caring, more gentle. The list goes on and on. It’s amazing, isn’t it? I love the work of God in and through our lives!
We also see a practical example of abiding in Acts 2:42. The early church stayed devoted (continued steadfastly) to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer. These regular habits occurred within the realm of their abiding.
The more deeply we remain in Christ, the more fruit He produces in and through us. Growth happens as we trust the Gardener and stay connected to the vine. It’s not by our might or strength but by His Spirit, says the Lord.
Slow down and return to the Lord. He is the place of strength, help, and the fruit of the Spirit. Abide!
