A Continuing Life of Dependence

Scripture: “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5

A farm implement may be attached to a tractor and appear completely ready for work. But if the PTO or hydraulic connection has not been made, it cannot accomplish what it was designed to do.

In a similar way, we may possess knowledge, experience, discipline, and gifting. We may create programs and formulate impressive plans. Yet Jesus does not say, “Apart from me, you will accomplish less than you hoped.” He says, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”

The greatest danger is not always open rebellion against God. Sometimes it is attempting to do the work of Christ without conscious dependence upon Christ.

Abiding is not a momentary spiritual experience. It is not merely an emotional worship service, a retreat, or a particularly powerful quiet time. Abiding is a continuing life of dependence upon Jesus.

It is possible to think primarily about what Jesus did for us in the past: “I believed. I was baptized. I prayed the sinner’s prayer. I used to read the Bible. I once felt close to God.” But Jesus calls us to present and persevering dependence. The Christian life is not only begun by faith; it is lived by faith.

A branch does not strain to manufacture grapes. It bears fruit because the life of the vine flows through it. This does not make the Christian life effort-free. Jesus commands prayer, obedience, love, service, and witness. But Christian effort must always be dependent effort.
There is a difference between working for life and working from life. There is a difference between obeying to earn Christ’s acceptance and obeying because we belong to Christ.
Talent can build a ministry. Personality can draw a crowd. Discipline can modify behavior. But only Christ can produce spiritual life. The vine does not need the branch, but the branch absolutely needs the vine.

Reflection: Where are you functioning independently from Jesus? Have you confused spiritual busyness with spiritual fruitfulness?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive me for relying upon my strength, experience, and ability. Teach me to live in continual dependence upon you. Let every act of obedience flow from faith, and produce in me the fruit I could never manufacture on my own. Amen.