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John 15:7 - The Key to Answered Prayer.

John 15:7 (ESV) If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

INTRODUCTION

Many people try to be good and honest. But Jesus says that to live a truly good life we must stay close to him, like a branch attached to its vine. In the same way that plants receive nutrients from their roots, we receive life-giving water from the Holy Spirit and food from God's Word. These provide spiritually regenerative power. Jesus told his disciples they could ask for anything that would increase fruit bearing. Apart from Jesus, we lose this connection and our efforts are unfruitful. Are you receiving and thriving from the nourishment offered by Jesus, the Vine? [Life Application SB 2019]

COMMENTARY PEARL

The Clear Cornerstone
   When you think your life depends solely on you, each stress and strain can feel overwhelming, if not frustrating. Yet when God calls you to hard things, it's never all on your shoulders.
   Peter was destined to be the cornerstone of the early church, but Jesus knew that Peter wasn't going to be ready for that responsibility until Peter understood that Jesus was the real cornerstone. Peter needed to be completely clear on that. As long as Peter believed it all depended on him, Jesus couldn't use him. Peter needed to depend on Jesus first.
   But like so many of us, Peter had forgotten that. He tried to do things his way. He'd denied Jesus, but Jesus knew Peter's heart and He knows yours. He knows the plans He has for your life, and instead of you figuring them all out on your own, He invites you to stay close. To trust Him. To remain in Him.
   That is where the fruit is. The joy. The peace. The cornerstone to stand on. That's how Jesus leads you, allowing you to rely on Him for His strength and sufficiency.
   Jesus, I want to depend more on You today and less on myself. Steer me sweetly back into Your arms that I would be secure on Your cornerstone. [Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio]

COMMENTARY

The promise is "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." John 15:7. And John declares: "Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected." 1 John 2:3-5.  COL144

If you are in Christ, and Christ is in you, you will be transformed, renewed, and sanctified. "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." Be sure that Christ is in you, that your heart is broken and submissive and humble. God will accept only the humble and contrite. Heaven is worth a lifelong, persevering effort; yes, it is worth everything. God will help you in your efforts if you strive only in Him. 4T259

QUESTION

How Does One Abide in Christ?

   Abiding in Christ means maintaining a continuous, daily connection with Jesus, similar to a branch's reliance on a vine (John 15:4-5). It is accomplished by trust, prayer, studying God's Word, and obeying His commands out of love. This dependence shifts one from self-reliance to spiritual fruitfulness and intimacy with God.
   Key ways to abide in Christ include:
      o Internalize His Word: Read and meditate on the Bible, allowing Christ's teachings to dwell in you.
      o Constant Prayer: Engage in consistent, daily, and honest communication with God.
      o Obey His Commands: Actively follow His teachings and walk in love, which proves one's love for Him.
      o Dependence on the Spirit: Rely on the Holy Spirit to guide your life rather than your own strength.
      o Community: Participate in fellowship with other believers and attend church.
      o Surrender and Trust: Daily entrust your will, heart, and life's burdens to Him.
   Abiding is not a one-time act but an ongoing, abiding relationship that produces spiritual fruit, such as love, joy, and peace. AI

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

John 15:7 - The Key to Answered Prayer.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2023/20230512-0928.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2021/20210412-0924.html

John 15:7 - It Will Cost You the World.
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2020/20200916-1128.html

For More.
https://abible.com/