Fruit in Relationships
This past Sunday, we continued our Fruitful series in John 15:12–17 and looked at how abiding in Jesus shows up in our relationships.
Jesus said,
“Love one another as I have loved you.”
That kind of love is not always easy. It’s one thing to love in theory—it’s another thing to love when you’re tired, frustrated, hurt, or dealing with difficult people. That’s where our faith becomes real.
Jesus reminds us that abiding produces a love that is sacrificial, forgiving, and willing to move toward people instead of away from them. And, that kind of love does not come from trying harder—it comes from staying connected to Him.
But, Jesus also gives us a beautiful reminder in this passage: we are no longer merely servants… He calls us friends.
That changes everything.
The Christian life is no longer about “I have to.”
I have to go to church.
I have to serve.
I have to give.
I have to obey.
When grace truly gets hold of your heart, it becomes:
I get to.
I get to worship.
I get to serve.
I get to walk with Jesus.
I get to know His heart.
That’s what abiding does. It changes duty into delight, and it produces fruit that not only changes us—but impacts others as well.
May God help us stay close to Jesus, so His love flows through us in a world that desperately needs it.
Abiding changes “I have to” into “I get to” — and that changes everything.
If you’d like to watch this week’s message, you can do so here: Fruit in Relationships Sermon
— Pastor Bill
