Day 28 – Abiding in God’s House
JOHN 15:1-5
I am the true vine, and My Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in Me, and I will 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.
I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing (John 15:1-5).
Jesus illustrates the relationship between Himself and His heavenly Father as He explains the nature of His relationship to us. We are called to abide with the one who makes us fruitful. As with the branch and the vine, this connection is vital; it provides sustenance and yields abundance through His empowering.
Reflection
- Do things that are not fruitful often frustrate you?
- Do you believe that doing things that honor Jesus will succeed?
- How does this change the course of your life?
EZRA 3:10-11
When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the Lord, as prescribed by David king of Israel. With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord:
“He is good; His love to Israel endures forever.” And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
(Ezra 3:10-11).
By the grace of God, the Temple that had been destroyed was being rebuilt. A great celebration took place. The house that represented Israel’s relationship with their Creator had its cornerstone laid. The divine plan of redemption was underway, with God undergirding Israel’s foundation.
Reflection
- How does it feel to accomplish something bigger than you?
- Are you joyful when you are doing things for God?
- Does God need a house as much as you do?
