Our Role as Branches in the Vine

John 15 is a wonderful explanation of our role as branches.

We aren’t vines. We aren’t the source of wisdom, power, or confidence. That’s Jesus.

Branches are either cut off or pruned (verse 2).

Pruning can be hard, but it makes us healthier and more productive.

Our purpose, productivity, and prayers are directly related to our closeness and obedience to the Vine and our knowledge of His Word (verses 4-8).

We prove we’re true branches by glorifying the Vine, finding true joy and loving the other branches (verses 8, 10-13, 17).

Because the Vine is hated without reason, His branches are also hated (verses 18-25).

Being a branch would sound incredibly hard if it weren't for the fact that the Vine chose us, loves us and is always close (verses 14-16).

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.” (verses 9-10).
-------------------
I encourage you to read John 15 today and consider how you might more passionately cling to the Vine. Are there things you need to "prune" from your schedule? Are there areas where you need to be more productive for the Lord? Are there ways you can be more loving to the other branches?

Would you like to read more about being a branch?
Christ in Us, Our Spiritual DNA
God's Commands Empower Us!