SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

Scripture: John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

Observation: What an amazing promise is given in verse seven. It is not a blank promise that anyone can claim, but one given to those who remain in close relationship with Jesus and keep his words in their heart. Verse sixteen indicates when we can expect the fulfillment of that promise. It is when our lives have become fruitful.

Application: From these two verses and their context it is easy to see that fruitfulness is of great importance to our Heavenly Father. Fruitfulness is the natural result of the life of the vine flowing into the branch. Unlike the vine and branch which has no mind and makes no choice in the matter, this passage gives me the responsibility of remaining. I must choose to remain. The lesson is from the vine and branch, but the application is that I must choose to live in constant contact and dependence on God.

Prayer: Lord, may the fruit of my life bring refreshment to others and glory to you. Amen.

August 13: Jeremiah 13-15; John 15

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!