John 15:1-17
Because it's disconnected from the source of life.
But merely trying harder never works, at least not for long.
We're saved by grace, through faith.
The solution is make the right connection.
It means to stay, dwell, continue, endure, remain.
#1. Without Him, You Can Do Nothing
The Greek word for nothing means nothing.
We live in a culture where everything is marketed as "making life easier."
"Come to me, and I will make your life possible … I'll make life do-able."
"All our righteous acts are like filthy rags."
The problem was that there was no connection to any source of power.
The problem is when you try to live disconnected from Him.
#2. With Him, You Can Do It All.
All things are possible with God. (Mark 10:27)
You will bear much fruit.
You experience answers to prayer.
Live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work. (Colossians 1:10)
Fruit is the Christ-like character that He produces in you.
"Fruit is holiness and good works flowing from faith."
Abiding in Jesus aligns your desires with His desires.
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. (1 John 5:14)
#3. What Does It Mean to Abide?
It's something you put in to practice.
Abiding in Jesus means that we abide in His love.
But you will be asked to put up with someone.
If you want to be closer to God, look at how you treat others.
No one who abides in Him keeps on sinning...(1 John 3:6 ESV)
You let His love work through you.
Abide in Him.