jesus or nothing
“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” —John 15:5
Business leaders understand well the concept of cutting unprofitable activities out of the business process. Sports coaches and athletic trainers also understand cutting out practice drills and plays which are not productive. Farmers don’t waste their limited time on activities which do not increase the yield of crops, flock, or herd. So, Jesus’ teaching on disposing of the branches which don’t bear fruit is well understood by many (Jn 15:6).
What is not as well understood in our culture is the weakness of the human will without the strength of the Lord. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak (see Rm 7:18). On our own, our endurance will eventually fade. Only by remaining in Jesus can we bear fruit for Him (Jn 15:4-5). Outside of Jesus, we will ultimately wither and fade (Jn 15:6).
Secular society teaches that the human spirit will triumph on its own effort. It proclaims that education will make you successful. Jesus, on the other hand, states bluntly, “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5). Jesus couldn’t make the message any clearer: We either remain in Jesus or wither (Jn 15:4-6).
Prayer: Father, may I never treat Your gracious gift of Your Son Jesus as meaningless (Gal 2:21). I want to spend my life as a Spirit-filled, fruitful disciple.
Promise: “Their story caused great joy among the brothers.” —Acts 15:3
Praise: St. Joseph helped dignify labor by serving Jesus daily through his workmanship.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Our retreat, Prophecy and Discernment, offered on May 24-25, will equip you to navigate the world we live in. Call 513-373-2397 or see www.presentationministries.com to register.)
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