Devotionals for December 26, 2023
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READ
John 15:1-4
1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
REFLECT
Following Jesus means being open to change, leaving our old selves behind to follow and learn from Him. Our hope for the future grows through the changing of our lives. Thank goodness our hope does not rest on something the world can give (since it can just as easily be taken away). The hope of Jesus is never-ending. You are called to abide in Him, and in doing so, your life will be fruitful in all the right ways. The joy of hope rests in Jesus, not our own strength—especially when life brings change.
APPLY
Q: How is Jesus describing your connection with Him?
Q: Your connection to the vine will determine the fruit you bear. Take a moment to look at the fruit in your life. What does it reveal about your connection to the vine?
Q: There is a comfort in knowing that through all of life's difficulties, there is a final, positive outcome when we remain in Jesus. How can you remind others of this and give them hope and encouragement through the tough (pruning) times?
Q: Your connection to the vine will determine the fruit you bear. Take a moment to look at the fruit in your life. What does it reveal about your connection to the vine?
Q: There is a comfort in knowing that through all of life's difficulties, there is a final, positive outcome when we remain in Jesus. How can you remind others of this and give them hope and encouragement through the tough (pruning) times?
SING
PRAY
"May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven."
Lord, you are the Prince of Peace. Thank you for being consistent through change. Thank you for being the true vine that I can abide in. Help me to point others to your kingdom. Amen.
Lord, you are the Prince of Peace. Thank you for being consistent through change. Thank you for being the true vine that I can abide in. Help me to point others to your kingdom. Amen.