John 15:5 – “ 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.”
Most mornings I start walking my dogs around 7 a.m. Recently about a week before setting our clocks back one hour, it was still very dark outside. The darkness gave me the illusion it was still very early in the morning and almost lured me into thinking I could complete my walk at a much more leisurely pace. However, after quickly glancing at the time on my Fitbit, I realized I needed to finish up quickly to avoid being late for my first appointment of the day.
That morning’s experience made me think about how I often approach my own life. Too frequently when accomplishing something, I falsely think it was because of my resources or skills. Or in contrast, when facing a difficulty, I feel I am all alone in trying to navigate through it. Both are illusions, for today’s text reminds all believers we never walk through anything solo.
This is the case whether the day is running smoothly or is filled with strife. Instead, it is His power, protection, and provision that propels us forward through each day. The more we embrace the truth that apart from Him we can do nothing, the more we can walk in joy, peace and victory.
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive us when we forget that apart from You we can do nothing. Thank You for your continual presence, protection and provision in our lives. In the Sweet Name of Jesus, Amen.
- Phyliss Hooten
