DEVOTION – DAY 550

John 15:16-17 “Bearing Much Fruit That Lasts”

John 15:16-17 “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might bear fruit – fruit that will last – and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.”

Jesus was teaching His disciples in John 15. In ancient times, those seeking to come under a discipleship of a particular rabbi would first identify the rabbi that they want to be mentored by. Then, they would seek the rabbi’s agreement to have them to be his disciples. But that was not the case with Jesus’ disciples. Jesus reminded them that He had sought each one of them out. Jesus had chosen them to bear fruit, fruit that would last. 

The other thing we can learn from these verses is that usually, people who desire to be fruitful in their ministry would be disciplined and consistent in their prayer life. But, surprisingly, Jesus in v16b said that it was the other way round. It is Jesus who would enable His disciples to be fruitful in their ministry. Then, God, the Father will hear their prayers when they pray to the Father in Jesus’ name. Jesus also reminded His disciples the importance of loving each other. For if they minister to others out of love for others, they will bear much fruit that would last.

I recently encountered some problems in an area of ministry. Some church members had “volunteered” to serve in this area. But our experience revealed that just as quickly as they volunteered to help, when other priorities enter their schedule, the same people would not show up for their duties. There was a lack of commitment on their part. So, I have learnt not to ask for volunteers but to seek out people with potential and choose them for ministry. I tell them that they were called by the Lord and I asked them to pray about agreeing to this call to serve. Because they are serving the Lord, and not doing me a favor, the attitude and commitment to serve by such people were much better. Because they are called to serve, they give of their best and they bear often fruit that lasts. The Lord also answers their prayers in enabling them to serve well.

Yes, there are times when people serving alongside each other face obstacles and disagreements but I always point out to them John 15:17, “Love each other.” It is true that love covers a multitude of sins. I remind people who serve alongside each other that when they love each other, they would be more patient and understanding with each other. They would be more gentle and accommodating, and the work for the Lord will be enriched, bearing more fruit.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing us to serve for you and having work for us to do to give you the glory. Help us to bear much fruit that lasts, and please help us to love one another always. We humbly ask in the gracious name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions

  1. How has God chosen you to serve Him and how has He equipped you for service?
  2. What kind of fruits have you borne for the Lord and how lasting were they? Share.
  3. If you have yet to serve and bear fruits for the Lord, what is keeping you from serving Him and bearing much fruit?
  4. Why is it important to bear fruit that will last? Discuss.