[God...made a lasting mark through the sacrifice of Jesus. Hebrews 13:20 MSG

During this season of reflection and renewal, join me, and let's explore the visible evidence that identifies us as faithful followers of Jesus. Can others see Jesus in our lives? ~ Donna Oswalt]

4th Sunday in Lent 

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. . . By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. John 15:5, 8 NKJV

From these words, we understand Jesus to express the necessity of abiding with Him. Another way to say this is ‘to remain in fellowship with Me’. This kind of fellowship is personal and daily and suggests to stay in close contact with Jesus. How is this demonstrated? Characteristics of trust and prayer, obedience and joy are the marks of abiding with Jesus.

Another outcome which is included in the same sentence as ‘abide’ is ‘bears much fruit’. Fruit refers to the good works and servant lifestyle that honors God and furthers His work in the world. The key to being able to produce fruit is completely linked to abiding in Christ; He is the Vine and we are the branches. Don’t miss the last part: without Me you can do nothing. Living a fruitful life comes from abiding in Christ. These inward and outward characteristics together mark us for His service and our service for His Glory!

• Read John 15:1-9: Who is the vinedresser? Who is the true vine? Who are the branches?
• In John 15:9, what kind of love is described? 

Lord, I believe that without You, I can do nothing; yet I fail to seek You, ask You or listen to You time after time. Forgive my inconsistent abiding. Help me improve my daily, personal relationship with You that my life might give honor to God. - dho

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Copyright 2013 by Donna Oswalt/Co-Founder of Mangrove Ministries/Christian blogger and author

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“May you be blessed by the Lord Who loves you best!”