Better Living Keys For Growth
Scripture Reading
John 15:4-8 (NRSVUE)
“Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and becomemy disciples.”
Introductory Remarks:
Better living is a way of being; growth is the evidence; fruitfulness is the outcome, and, simply put, abiding in God is the key and the source. John 15 reminds us that we cannot manufacture growth. A branch does not struggle to prove that it is connected to the vine; it simply remains connected, and fruit comes in due season. Additionally, the branch cannot produce fruit by itself; it must remain connected to the tree.
In the same way, growth requires the right position, a consistent and steady connection to God, and a willingness to bear fruit that blesses others and glorifies God.
Make no mistake. Fruitful growth is not for boast, but for show. Not to ‘show off,’ but to show the glory of God in, through, and as you and to demonstrate and inspire God’s glorious expression in, through, and as others.
Major Keys of the Lesson:
Key #1. Growth requires the right posture.
Key #2. Growth requires a consistent connection.
Key #3. Growth reveals your spiritual purpose.
Quote:
“We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” - Oprah Winfrey
ASSIGNMENT:
Choose 1 area of your life calling for growth. It’s probably the area that you think about most, that gets you frustrated, and that emerges in your dreams. Write a growth note of thanksgiving for the fruit that has already been produced.
Dear God,
I am happy and grateful now that I am experiencing _____________________________________________.
By Your power and presence, I hold my connection to Your Divine idea in me. I willingly share the fruit of my growth with others for your glory. Thank you, God. And so, it is.
Choose at least 1 spiritual practice for divine connection (denial and affirmation, prayer, meditation, listening) that you can commit to for 30 days. Set a reminder, alarm, and accountability partner for support.
As AIF rolls around this October, let’s hear your celebration testimony, and let’s scale up the fruit of this, or another growth idea.