I was talking at lunch with two great friends, and they hit the nail on the head. There is nothing on earth that can satisfy in the long run, but Jesus. Some girls think if I could just get a husband, then I will be content. Others who are married say, if my husband would just understand me or act like that husband over there, then I will be content. Other "just ifs" are a good job, a great body, wealth, children who are well round or just children in general, great friends, etc. However, all these things will fail at some point. They were not meant to fulfill our ultimate desire of knowing Jesus. That is why Jesus wants us to come to Him, not because he is a "conceited God" but because He knows our ultimate best is found in Him. He loves us and wants us to be fulfilled. These other things are not bad and can give lots of joy if they are in their proper place. They were never meant to take Jesus' place. Jesus, if you are the ultimate desire of my soul, help me saturate myself in your Word. Help me be the branches on your vine of everlasting life, peace, joy, etc. John 15:5, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." We have to be connected to the source of life, that is Jesus alone. We can only live content, productive "eternal" lives, if we are abiding in Him. For me, I have to be abiding constantly. If I turn to the side for even a second, it falls apart pretty quickly. I need Jesus. Jesus, you are my life source. Keep me abiding in you. John 15:9, "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love." Remain with Jesus. Nothing else will satisfy like Him.
Fran
That vine and branches quote is very interesting. God has been bringing pruning to my mind lately - biblically reading Joel 3 and practically as figure out how to prune two peach trees in the yard so they will have fruit.
ReplyDeleteI found this about the trees, and our lives have parallels.
1. You have to work hard year round to get quality fruit from peach trees, most importantly pruning. They are also constantly being attacked by disease and bugs to prohibit fruit.
2. Branches. a fruit producing tree has hollow middle of only 3 main branches to let the sun shine in. You have to put yourself in position to receive light or no fruit will grow.
thanks for your encouraging blog Fran.