Abiding Fruit...Craig Denison Ministries

 Abiding Fruit

Craig Denison Ministries

Weekly Overview: 

The absolute, most important single act of the children of God is making space to encounter our heavenly Father in the secret place. Abiding in God is the foundation on which every other aspect of the Christian life finds success. It establishes roots which enable us to receive all that we need to bear the fruit of the Spirit. It guides us to constant refreshment and revival in God’s presence, thereby supplying and sustaining the abundant life God intends for us. My prayer is that you would be marked by wonderful, satisfying, and fulfilling encounters with the presence of God as we look at John 15:1-17 this week. Make room in your heart and mind to rest in the love of your heavenly Father as we look at the different ways we are to abide in true vine of God.

Scripture:“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide.” John 15:16

Devotional:    

You have been chosen and appointed to bear eternal and impactful fruit. John 15:16 says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide.” God created all of us with a longing to make an important and lasting impact with the intention of satisfying that longing in him. He has a plan for your life that doesn’t belong to anyone else. You alone can accomplish the works set before you, and you won’t find true satisfaction until you do. Your heavenly Father has placed desires in you which he has plans to satisfy in magnificent and joyful ways. He knows for what purposes you were created and longs to lead you into a lifestyle of good works that will fill you with all the abundance of life available to you through Christ.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” You were created to live a lifestyle of good works. It is not outside of your nature to accomplish amazing things no matter how you’ve lived your life up to this point. God takes what the world has deemed broken and useless and transforms it into the very likeness of his son, Jesus. He has plans to transform you into his disciple: ready, equipped, and useful for every good and fruitful work. Believe today that God would use you and discover the wealth of plans he has set before you. Surrender to the truth that God has better plans than you can ask or imagine in store for you if you will follow him. Come before him with expectation today, ready to receive all the he would guide you to. Let’s dive wholeheartedly into God’s word and presence as we learn from him how to live the fruitful life he has appointed for us.

In order to bear the fruit God has set before us we must abide in him. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit without the nutrients the vine provides, we cannot bear fruit without being connected to our only source of true life, our heavenly Father. God leads us into the plans he has for us as we spend time in his presence and his word. Psalm 1:1-3 says,

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

It’s in God’s presence and word that we are molded, refined, and transformed. It’s only in spending time with him that we become nourished and ready to bear fruit. Just as a tree must be pruned in order to bear more fruit, we must allow God to tear away parts of our life that are keeping us from the good works he intends for us. We must spend time in God’s presence being fashioned, healed, and transformed.

In order to bear the fruit God intends, we must learn to allow the Spirit to work in and through us. God not only transforms us as we spend time with him and his word, but empowers us through the Holy Spirit to do good works we could never accomplish in our own strength. It’s only through God working in us that our weaknesses are turned into strengths so we can truly love one another. And it’s only through the Spirit that hearts are changed and drawn to our heavenly Father. God longs to give you his heart for people. He longs to empower you to speak and work with his authority. He longs to do works through you that can’t be explained except by his reality. If you will choose to humble yourself before God and allow him to work in and through you, you will begin to bear the very fruit of the Holy Spirit dwelling within you. The disciples had no great gifts or power on their own. It was only by the working of the Holy Spirit that Christianity exploded in size and influence and changed the world. Co-labor with the Holy Spirit in all that you do. Allow him to move and work in every part of your life and experience all the incredible ways he desires to use you to bring the kingdom of God to earth.

Spend time abiding in the true vine of God today. Open your heart and mind to his word. And allow the Holy Spirit to teach you how he desires to work in and through you. May the amazing plans God has for you bring peace, purpose, and joy to your life today.           

Guided Prayer:

1. Meditate on God’s desire to produce important and lasting fruit through your life.

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide.” John 15:16

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

2. Spend time in God’s presence allowing him to nourish and empower you for good works. Ask him to reveal what he has set before you to accomplish for his kingdom today. Ask the Holy Spirit to work in and through you.

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” Psalm 1:1-3

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

3. Commit to following the leadership of the Holy Spirit today as he guides you to producing good fruit. Choose to love others as God has loved you. Choose to live a lifestyle of agreeing with the Holy Spirit in every way that he leads you.

How vast is God’s love for us that he would not only save us, redeem us, and set us free, but he desires to use us, a broken and needy people, to change the world. God desires to anoint his people with his Spirit to accomplish his work. May your life be marked by the wonderful and lasting fruit of a child of God surrendered to and in love with our heavenly Father.

Extended Reading: Romans 8

Do You Need To Feel Seen by Jesus Today?..BETH KNIGHT

 Do You Need To Feel Seen by Jesus Today?

BETH KNIGHT

“neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:39 (NIV)

Jesus unexpectedly showed up at my cash register that day.

Although my heart was hurled into the depths of despair before my shift, I had a job to do. So I wiped away my tears, buried my emotions beneath a pasted-on smile and strolled through the door with my head held high.

I worked at a local Christian bookstore, so books about Jesus surrounded me, and songs about Jesus serenaded me, but the grief inside me made me feel separated from Him. I was a champion at hiding my pain from God and others, and my trophy was gut-wrenching loneliness.

By God’s provision, one customer saw past my pretenses. As I rang up her items, she stopped me and said, “I sense the Holy Spirit leading me to hug you. May I come around the counter?”

I agreed to her proposition and watched her slowly walk around the counter to embrace me. My tense shoulders softened within the warmth of being seen.

This happened 20 years ago. I don't remember the woman's name or what she looked like, but I will never forget what God taught me through her obedience.

1. Our deepest sorrows do not signify a separation from God’s love. In today’s key verse, Romans 8:39, “separate” comes from the Greek word chorizo, which means to divide, separate oneself, depart or go away from.

Paul makes it clear that “neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate [chorizo] us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Praise God! Not even the depths of despair can cause God’s love to depart from us.

2. Feeling separated from God often stems from a longing to feel seen. While we may be surrounded by people at church, at the grocery store or in our own home, our inner turmoil can seem invisible to others. Yet God sees us so clearly that He knows every single hair on our heads. (Luke 12:7) And sometimes, He’ll send a willing vessel to remind us that He sees us. At other times, we can be that willing vessel to those who are grieving.

Unforgettable, holy moments can happen in unexpected places when someone is sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading. Because of one woman's obedience, I carry a vivid reminder that God is near to the brokenhearted. (Psalm 34:18) Are we willing to have the same obedience?

Precious friend, if you are alone and hurting today, I pray the Lord will miraculously show up through His Word and through His people. He sees — He is near — and as John 10:28 says, nothing will ever snatch you out of His hands.

Heavenly Father, thank You that through Christ I am eternally secure in Your love. When sorrow makes me feel separated from You, help me feel seen by You. And help me share Your love with others who are hurting. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

God Is Always in Control...Dr. Charles Stanley

 God Is Always in Control

Dr. Charles Stanley

Isaiah 45:5-7

I admit that I often don’t understand why bad things happen. Even so, I believe that God has a purpose for everything He does or permits. My faith is rooted in the biblical principle that says the Lord is sovereign (Ps. 22:28). He is in absolute control of this universe, the natural and political climate of this earth, and my life and yours.

When we are in the midst of a trial, it is hard to resist crying out, “God, Why is this happening?” Sometimes we get the answer and sometimes we don’t. What we can be sure of is that nothing happens by accident or coincidence. He has a purpose for even our most painful experiences. Moreover, we have His promise to “cause all things to work together for good to those who love God” (Rom. 8:28).

Seeing in advance how the Lord will work evil or hurt for our benefit is very difficult, if not impossible. My limited human perspective doesn’t allow me to grasp His greater plan. However, I can confirm the truth of this biblical promise because the Father’s good handiwork appears all through my pain, hardship, and loss. I have experienced Him turn mourning into gladness and have seen Him reap bountiful blessings and benefits from my darkest hours.

As believers, we must accept that God won’t always make sense to us. Isaiah teaches that His ways and thoughts are higher than our own (Isa. 55:9). He sees the beautifully completed big picture. We can rely on the fact that God is in control, no matter how wildly off-kilter our world seems to spin.

Praying for Open Eyes...By Brent Rinehart

 Praying for Open Eyes

By Brent Rinehart

“Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” - 2 Kings 6:17

You’ve probably heard the saying that someone “can’t see the forest for the trees.” It’s often used to describe a person who is so involved in the details of a project that they are unable to view the situation as a whole. Put another way, it’s when present circumstances shield the bigger picture. Thinking about this concept spiritually, sometimes the hardships we are facing can cause us to be blind to how God is moving in and through them.

I love this story about Elisha found in 2 Kings 6. The king of Syria was aiming to invade and take over Israel. His massive army surrounded the Israelite camp, and Elisha's servant was alarmed – with good reason! He didn't know what to do, so he ran to the prophet Elisha. Elisha said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them” (v. 16).

Elisha then prayed for God to open his servant’s eyes, so he could see the same thing Elisha could see. “So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (v. 17).

I take great comfort in this passage, for it reminds me of a couple of key principles. First, it shows that God is still working even when we can’t see it. Second, it reminds me that sometimes, God may give us vision if it's His will to do so... if we ask Him.

It may seem like the enemy is all around. It may appear like the odds are stacked against us. This world brings all sorts of trouble. From health scares and financial woes to job loss and relationship struggles, sometimes it feels like the world dishes out more than we can take. We can feel like we are fumbling around in a dark room trying to find the Light. But, we can rest in knowing God is in control. Remember, greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4). He’s working all things together for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

Even more, this passage shows us God’s willingness to give us His vision. We can ask God to open our eyes and open the eyes of the ones around us. When I can’t see God moving, I should pray for open eyes to see what He’s up to. When the ones I love around me can’t see God moving, I should pray for God to open their eyes so they can see the big picture. God may not always let us in on His plans, but I believe the process of asking Him reminds us that He is at work and we can trust Him.

What are the circumstances in your life blocking your view of how God is moving? What hardships are you facing that are keeping you from fully trusting God? We can ask God to give us His eyes. Whether or not we ever see the mountain full of “horses and chariots of fire,” we can trust and have faith that God is good and He’s working in and through our difficult circumstances.

A Prayer for Walking in Truth and Grace..By Chelsey DeMatteis

 A Prayer for Walking in Truth and Grace

By Chelsey DeMatteis

“Sanctify them in truth, your Word is truth.” - John 17:17

Truth and grace are two words that can cause much tension in the world, and they should. Truth and grace are not of this world. They stem from the heart of our holy, perfect, righteous God and because of that, they pierce the hearts of those who have turned to Him.

Over 2000 years ago, our Savior was born. The long-awaited Redeemer. The Son of God, the Son of man - was here. The One who would exude truth and grace all the days of His life on this earth. He came to make man right with God. He came to teach those who would be attentive to His Word who He was and why He was there. The same happens today because Jesus is alive and seated on the throne next to God the Father. He wants you to know who He is and why He came for us.

This past year has taught us many things, but some of the most important are: we need a relationship with our Savior, truth is found in Christ alone, and grace is found in Christ alone. We watched an entire year unfold that had us all on our knees and deepened our dependence on the Lord. He drew us in with His truth and grace. As Jesus said would happen in John 17:17: “sanctify them in truth, your word is truth.” He has deepened our expectancy of all Christ has done, is doing, and will do before He comes again.

While I of course wouldn’t want to go through everything that we’ve been through again, I do pray the hunger we experienced for God's leading would linger for generations to come. This year led many of us to the threshing floor. He stripped us of our pride and our idols. This caused many of us to work through our pain.

You see, walking with the Lord is so much more than emotional worship experiences, following the popular Christian figures, and hearing a sermon on Sundays. Walking with the Lord is about a personal relationship with Him, drawing near to Him through His Word, resting securely in our salvation because of the cross, and joyfully accepting the sanctification process.

As this year plays out, may we hold loosely to our plans and submit to the Lord as He leads the way. May we follow Him with boldness and assurance of who we are. Let us live in a constant posture of keeping our hearts tethered to our always truthful, all-sustaining, Heavenly Father, and may we boldly share why Jesus came and that He will be coming again.

Let's pray:

The Lord thank you for always leading us and loving us through the gift of truth and grace. I pray your truth guides all of my steps, my decisions and plans this year. I pray that when I struggle with doubt or uncertainty, that I would be renewed by the conviction that your Word is truth.

I pray for grace – for myself and for others. I pray I would know the depths of grace I have in you. I pray that grace would help make me more gracious to those in my life.

Help me to be bold for the Kingdom of God and not shy away from opportunities to be your hands and feet. I pray for a desire to know you more deeply and look to you as sustainer no matter what comes to pass.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Discontent Default... by Annie Yorty

 Discontent Default

 by Annie Yorty

“Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one is affluent does his life consist of his possessions” (Luke 12:15 NASB).

The seat warmers felt amazing. I never dreamed a warm tushy would feel so good. We normally purchased cars without many bells and whistles. Those were not necessary, and I figured money could be better spent elsewhere. Seat warmers seemed like the ultimate luxury. But that fall when we unexpectedly found ourselves in the market for a new-to-us car, God provided one with seat warmers. 

As temperatures began to drop overnight, my morning drives were more comfortable than I had ever thought possible. I reveled in the toasty hug from my seat even as the heater still blew lukewarm air.

It’s too bad the steering wheel is so cold. It should be heated too. That complaint popped into my head one morning as I pulled out of my driveway with my rear on fire. It had only been two months since I had been driving Essie. (Yes, I admit it, I name my cars.)

Shocked by my own thought, I immediately chided myself. Where did that come from? How quickly you are dissatisfied! Thankfully, the Holy Spirit quickly convicted me of my sin, and I confessed it to God. But my short-lived pleasure in God’s good gift reinforced to me the default position of my wayward heart. 

I am prone to discontent. Jesus warned us of this tendency in the parable of the rich fool found in Luke 12:13-21. We usually focus more on temporary and worldly issues than on critical, eternal matters. And what exactly are those things that cause us to slip into grumbling and wanting something more or different? 

It’s easiest to identify discontent with belongings. The “perfect” home seems run-down when compared to our neighbor’s. Our wardrobe becomes inadequate when we wear the same items repeatedly. The bank account now looks puny when we desire a dream vacation. The parade of advertising we view on media whets our appetite for more and more possessions.

But there are also more abstract sources of discontent. Have you ever groaned over your appearance? Too fat . . . or too thin. Wondering why you couldn’t be just a few inches taller. Wanting your hair to be straight. Wishing it had more curls. Wishing you just had hair! Does someone else always seem to look better than you? Our world’s emphasis on outward appearance often drives these complaints. 

What about love and relationships? Are you single and longing to find a spouse? If only you had a soulmate, then your life would be complete. Yet married people experience discontent too. Your co-worker’s wife looks like a model. Couldn’t your own wife take a little more care with her appearance? A friend’s handy husband always attends to home maintenance and car repair, while yours can barely identify a hammer. Another’s spouse finds time to plan romantic dates with chocolates and flowers while yours is lucky to produce a card on your birthday. 

We sometimes wish for what we don’t have spiritually too. God distributes spiritual gifts to His children for His own glory. But what do we do? We wish for a gift He did not give to us. We count some gifts as more valuable than others.

The writer of Hebrews also reminds us about contentment, connecting it to God’s presence. “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you’” (Hebrews 13:5 NASB). He says we should be content because God promises He will always be with us. That is the Father’s default position with His children.

The more we appreciate the richness of God’s presence in our lives, the less discontentment we will experience. Then we can use, but not depend on, the possessions given by God. We can enjoy God’s good gifts but revel more in our Benefactor. Even when a temporal blessing is removed, we can still rejoice as the One who gives and takes away fills any void. 

As my warm bottom will testify, more of anything else will never satisfy.

Intersecting Faith and Life:
Is God bringing to mind any area of discontent in your heart? How will you come into His presence to experience satisfaction and joy more fully?

Further Reading:
Luke 12:13-21