“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers… If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.  You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” ~Jesus  (John 15:5-7, 16)

What Jesus is saying here is almost incomprehensible:  if I stay connected to him two astonishing things will happen to me.

First, I will “bear much fruit.” I will have a productive, rich, and satisfying life. I will bear the fruit of the Spirit which is the most valuable commodity in the universe. It consists of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control.

Secondly, once I am well established as a strong branch, connected to the Vine which is Jesus and I am bearing this delicious fruit everyday, my will and my desires will be so entwined in His that I will be able to ask Him for anything, and he will grant my wishes. Look at that Scripture again! He said, “Whatever you wish”! Let’s take the steps to becoming so intimately connected to Jesus that these promises will be realized in our lives.

Father,

Your Word and Your promises for me are true. I want to take Jesus up on his invitation to stay close to him, to follow him, to listen to his voice, to heed his commands, and to love and worship him. As I grow and become established as his follower, I thank you that my life will become fruitful and productive. I thank you for these blessed promises. Thank you that Jesus will hear my prayers and answer the cries of my heart and that You, Father, will be glorified in this miracle.

In Jesus’ Name. Amen