Sustained Connection

“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” John 15:4 (NIV)

It doesn’t happen very frequently, but occasionally we lose our electricity. While writing the devotion one morning, I heard the wind blowing outside. Suddenly, the floor lamp in the office went black, and the usual background noises stopped. Prepared for such an event, I dragged out the generator, plugged it into the outlet, and soon had power to our home. 

The Greek word μείνατε (meinate), used in John 15:4, is an imperative meaning "remain," "abide," or "stay." This word reflects Jesus’ call for His disciples—and for us—to intentionally sustain our connection to Him. This command encapsulates the essence of our spiritual relationship with Christ—not a fleeting bond, but one that requires active participation and endurance.

Occasionally, we may experience spiritual disruptions that remind us of the importance of this connection. Think about losing electricity during a storm—the sudden silence, the darkness, and the loss of power all echo the effects of being spiritually disconnected. When we drift away from Christ, we often feel a dimming of purpose, peace, and strength. Without the steady flow of His presence, our lives can seem vulnerable, much like a home caught in a storm without power.

Restoring the connection requires action, just as retrieving the generator revived light and power to the house. This intentional effort brought the home back to life, much like the spiritual renewal that occurs when we reconnect with Christ. Similarly, reigniting our relationship with Christ involves intentional effort—seeking Him in prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and embracing fellowship and worship. These practices keep us anchored and thriving.

Remaining connected to Christ is vital because He is our source of life, strength, and direction. As John 15:5 reminds us, “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.” When we sustain our connection with Him, we experience fruitfulness—manifesting qualities like love, joy, and patience—and live with clarity and purpose. Disconnection, however, can leave us feeling spiritually barren and powerless.

Take time to reflect: Are there areas where the connection feels strained in your life? What fruit might you bear if that connection were renewed? What steps might you take today to remain deeply rooted in Christ? His invitation to abide is always open, and through Him, we find renewed strength and grace for every season

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to abide in You and for being the unshakable source of life and strength. Teach us to remain deeply connected to You, no matter the storms that come our way. Help us recognize when we’ve drifted and guide us back into Your loving presence. May our lives bear the fruit of Your Spirit and reflect Your grace and goodness to those around us. Keep us rooted, growing, and thriving in You, always. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim