Remain - II

Evidence of Remaining

MEMORY VERSE

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. (John 15:4)

REFLECTION

In John 15:1-17 Jesus used the word “remain” eleven times. Pretty important word!   What does it mean to Remain in Jesus? The Bible Exposition Commentary explains it like this: It means to keep in fellowship with Christ so that His life can work in and through us to produce fruit.  This involves knowing the Word of God. It involves the confession of sin so that nothing hinders our communion with Him. And it involves obeying Him because we love Him.   Are you remaining in Christ? If you're not sure, here are some evidences:

• You produce fruit (v.2)
• You experience the Father's pruning so that you produce more fruit (v.2)
• Your prayers will be answered (v.7)
• You experience a deepening love for Christ and for other believers (v.9,12,13)
• You experience joy (v.11)

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

Are there any of these five evidences listed above that you have not seen in your life this week? This month? What will you do about it?

ACTION STEPS FOR THE WEEK

If you don’t have one already, start a spiritual journal.  Identify each day something that has happened to you or in you or through you as a result of remaining in Christ and record it in your journal.