Bear Fruit (Part 1)
Danger & dwelling
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If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
John 15:7-8 (ESV)
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There’s a danger to this verse.
What I mean is, if you read it wrong then you might think that there’s a magic formula here that’s the key to getting all the little trinkets you want out of life.
And many people have — intentionally or innocently — read this wrong.
Jesus is not giving us a formula here for selfish gains. And I despise the so-called “prosperity gospel” people who teach this kind of crap.
No, this verse is much more about our maturing walk with Jesus.
I looked up the definition of “abide.”
It has much to do with living with someone, walking alongside someone, and submitting to someone. And that’s kind of all wrapped together.
So, if I’m abiding with Jesus, then I’m submitting to His authority, spending time in relationship with Him, and even living with Him! There’s a reason Paul calls believers temples where the Holy Spirit dwells (lives).
Thus, if I’m being matured and molded and shaped by Christ and His words, then the things I wish for will be in line with the things He wishes for too.
Why wouldn’t He give us the desires of our hearts if they also line up with His desires?
He obviously would … and does.
Not a magic formula, but a rhythm of life.
All right, I’ve got more to say in a bit…
— Ricky Ketchum
Copyright © 2025 by Ricky Ketchum. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.
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