remaining

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 NLT

https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.5.NLT

Have you heard it said: "she/he has an independent spirit. Many may relish such a pronouncement. 

In context with the scripture above, it is not thought admirable by Christ. An indepent spirit does its own thing, apart from Christ, and does not produce fruit. The scripture goes on to say that those who fail to produce fruit are removed, and cast into the fire. Not a pretty senario.

How can you tell if you have an independent Spirit? Easy! You do not produce fruit.

I am inclined to be independent from the herd mentality, however, am I independent from Christ? No! Am I producing fruit? In Gen 49:22 Jospeh is called a fruitful vine. What did Joseph do? He was faithful through years of injustice, and hardship, and he trusted God to be his deliverer. He became the prime minister of Egypt and saw his family come to live in Egypt during the seven year drought. He managed the affairs of Egypt well, and had favour with godless men and women, as well as his own family. Time and God will judge me.

In the book of Isaiah the Father is depicted as the vinedresser looking for fruit in Israel, and not finding any. The people of Israel still 'played church', but lacked a heart for their God.

Today, let us examine our hearts. Are we playing church? Or is a genuine love for our God and His ways throb in our hearts? Judas was a disciple like the remaining 11, but he was cast out because of his actions, and his wicked heart. His motives for being with Jesus were not pure. What are my motives?

Time for a check up!