What happens when you try to do everything on your own? Maybe you push through, trying to be patient, kind, and loving, but you find yourself running out of energy. Loving people—especially difficult people—can feel like an impossible task.
But Jesus never meant for us to do it alone.
In John 15:5 (ESV), Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
Pastor Chris reminded us, “If you try to love people in your own strength, you will run dry. But when you abide in Jesus, love naturally flows through you. The closer you are to Him, the more love will overflow into your relationships.”
Imagine trying to water a garden without turning on the hose. You can try to carry water back and forth in buckets, but eventually, you’ll get tired. But if you stay connected to the source, the water will flow freely.
It’s the same with love. When we stay connected to Jesus—through prayer, worship, and His Word—His love flows through us effortlessly.
Practical Application:
- Set aside time daily to connect with Jesus through prayer and scripture.
- Notice when you’re feeling drained—are you trying to love in your own strength?
- Ask God to help you love with His power, not just your own effort.
- Make time for worship and gratitude to recharge your heart.
- When struggling with patience or kindness, stop and ask Jesus for help in that moment.
Prayer Prompts:
- Lord, remind me to stay connected to You so I can love others well.
- Show me where I have been trying to love in my own strength.
- Fill me with Your love so it overflows into my relationships.
- Help me to bear fruit that reflects Your love and grace.
Click below to listen to the full message from Pastor Chris.