Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.

John 15:4-5 CSB

Are you blooming? The day I took this photo, I was sitting outside on the deck having time in the Word and kept looking at this new spring flag on our deck. I loved the vivid colors, but more than that I want to do what this says.

All that God was saying to me lately came together in this thought, bloom where you are planted. There were some things I was unsettled about but really couldn't do anything about. So, this thought was especially poignant.

In John 15, Jesus teaches His followers about how essential it is to stay connected to the vine to grow and bear fruit.

Consider the plants, fruit trees, and flowers that will be growing this spring. What happens if a limb falls off? Or perhaps you have my problem. A deer or rabbit eats the blooms from the plants! 

Sometimes, Satan tries to sever our relationship with Christ. We know as His children, that’s impossible, but it sure can snip our blooms, bringing pain and frustration. But, if I can keep the animals off, new blooms will once again grace my front porch.

You will keep bearing fruit if you stay connected to the vine! There will be new growth in spite of the spiritual attacks.

The only way I am able to face every challenge is my connection with Jesus and His Word. Truly, there is power and wisdom for ANYTHING God allows into our lives, and we can come out closer to Him because of it as we bear spiritual fruit.

Read the entire chapter of John 15 for confirmation of this truth!

Chris Adams