Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you. Remain in my love. John 15:9 WEB
These words come from Jesus’ teaching of the vine and its branches. Grafted to the vine that is Jesus Christ, Christians produce the fruit of service to the kingdom of heaven. Nourished by the root of our faith in God, we live through Christ and by his example of love.
Some translations of this scripture use the word “abide” rather than “remain.” To abide or remain in God’s love requires faithfully following the teaching and commands of Christ. As Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments. WEB” Jesus lived in perfect obedience to the will of God. To follow his example, we strive to do the same.
Saved by faith and not works, we prove our faith and love for God with our obedience to his will. The analogy of the vine and the branches teaches the source of the good fruit produced by believers. All good things come from God.
A Good Tree
Jesus describes the difference between those who remain in his love and those who don’t in Matthew 7:18-19 saying, “A good tree can’t produce evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree produce good fruit. Every tree that doesn’t grow good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. WEB” We are known by our fruits, our actions, our behavior.
It is our connection to the “vine” that transforms us from corruption to the good things of God. Cultivation and growth in our relationship with the Lord leads to ever increasing abundance in the fruit we display. When Jesus says, “remain in my love,” he is giving us the key to living fruitful, godly lives. That key is obedience to the word and will of God.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for accepting me into your holy family. Thank you for the example of Jesus Christ. Cultivate me. Help me to be more productive in my service to your kingdom. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Earnestly I Seek you
