John 15:5 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Let me ask you something. Are you really connected to Jesus, or just kind of near Him? Because Jesus didn’t die so we could live close to Him—He died so we could live in Him. Deeply connected. Rooted. Alive. In John 15, Jesus gives us this powerful image: He’s the vine, we’re the branches. That means every part of our strength, our identity, our purpose, our fruit—it all flows from Him. And if we’re truly connected to Him, it shows. Love, peace, patience, joy—those things start to overflow in our lives. But if we’re not producing fruit—if our life isn’t marked by joy, or love, or growth—something’s off. Something is coming between us and the Vine. Maybe it’s sin. Maybe it’s distraction. Maybe it’s just trying to do life on your own terms. But Jesus says apart from Him, we can do nothing. Not “some things.” Nothing. Here’s what blows my mind: Jesus says He tells us all this so our joy may be complete. He’s not just after obedience—He’s after your joy. A joy that fills you, fuels you, and spills out onto everyone around you. And here’s where it gets real: Are you experiencing that kind of joy right now? Not fake happiness. Not forced church smiles. I’m talking about that deep, unshakable joy where you know Jesus is with you, filling you, changing you, and using you. If you’re not, maybe it’s time to check your connection. Are you living from His love? Are you obeying His voice? Are you staying close, even when it’s hard? The fruit doesn’t come from striving—it comes from remaining. So today, take a step back. Ask yourself honestly: Am I really connected to the Vine? And if not, what’s getting in the way? Because Jesus isn’t calling you to a dry, empty, joyless faith. He’s inviting you into something abundant, fruitful, and full of joy. Let’s stay connected

 

Pastor Chance