3. John 15:1-8 (New Living Translation) "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. [2] He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. [3] You have already been pruned for greater fruitfulness by the message I have given you. [4] Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me.
4. John 15:1-8 (continued) [5] "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. [6] Anyone who parts from me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. [7] But if you stay joined to me and my words remain in you, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted! [8] My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father.
5. TAKE HOME • Spiritual Growth will only occur sporadically, unless my daily regimen is intentional and persistent. • Salvation is free, but personal growth is time consuming, expensive and collaborative. • It is time to shake the dust off of my Bible, get down on my knees and find a friend to walk along side of me on the Jesus Trail.
6. Father, forgive me for coasting or expecting others to feed me. I hereby take responsibility for growing up in Christ and becoming more fruitful. I'll need your help, of course! Commitment:
10. David and Jonathan are great examples of this! --I Samuel 18: 1-4 We all need to spend more time with people who help us grow, mentors and fellow sojourners.
11. Pray without ceasing , Praise the Lord always, Walk with Jesus continually! Commend God! Borrow words from David or Isaiah, sing spiritual songs! Enter into his courts with thanksgiving , throughout the day. Sink your roots down into the loamy soil of God. WORSHIP TO SINK THOSE ROOTS DEEPER --Eph 5: 18-20
18. Psalm 63: 6 I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. 7 I think how much you have helped me; I sing for joy in the shadow of your protecting wings. 8 I follow close behind you; your strong right hand holds me securely. MEDITATE TO ASSIMILATE
19. Turn off the T.V. and iPod. Get away by yourself. Ponder the goodness, greatness and of God. Put your life under the scrutiny of God's Word.
25. TAKE HOME • Spiritual Growth will only occur sporadically, unless my daily regimen is intentional and persistent. • Salvation is free, but personal growth is time consuming, expensive and collaborative. • It is time to shake the dust off of my Bible, get down on my knees and find a friend to walk along side of me on the Jesus Trail.
26. Father, forgive me for coasting or expecting others to feed me. I hereby take responsibility for growing up in Christ and becoming more fruitful. I'll need your help, of course! Commitment:
27. God “is holding back the End because he doesn't want anyone lost. He's giving everyone space and time to change.” Go and help others know Jesus.
