READING:
One-year plan: 1 Chronicles 3-5, John 15:1-25
Two-year plan: Deuteronomy 10:1-11:25, Luke 1:26-38
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I love good fruit. Because of my work for a seminary and a missions agency, I have opportunities to travel to places around the world where the fruit is without comparison.
Jesus talked about good fruit in today’s New Testament reading, though He obviously meant a different kind of fruit. Scholars differ as to what that fruit is (some see it as the “fruit of the Spirit,” new believers we lead to Christ, or all we do to illustrate our faith in Him). What we do know, though, is that it is abiding in Christ that leads to fruit.
The word translated “abide” or “remain” carries the sense of deep connection with, full reliance on, and unwavering commitment to the vine. That’s the mark of a true believer—one who clings to the vine who holds on to him, and whose life produces fruit that glorifies God. Continual fellowship with Christ is assumed, and ongoing disobedience is not an option. Remaining in Him, then, is evidence that we are His.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Are you abiding in Christ today?
PRAYER: “Father, I need Your help to cling to You.”
TOMORROW’S READINGS:
One-year plan: 1 Chronicles 6-7, John 15:26-16:33
Two-year plan: Deuteronomy 11:26-12:32, Luke 1:39-56
