That Your Joy May Be Complete

Day 18: March 6^th Wednesday

Scripture: John 15:1-11

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.”

This scripture comes from the fourth gospel in the Bible, the Gospel according to John.  These verses are part of Jesus’ “Farewell Discourse.” In John chapter 13 Jesus gathers with his disciples for the Last Supper.  He takes the opportunity to wash their feet.  Afterwards he returns to the table and begins to teach the disciples.  He is trying to prepare them for his death.  The scripture we read today is included in this teaching.  There are many parts of this scripture we could focus on. 

Right now, ask God to show you what part God wants you to concentrate on.

Re-read the scripture.  Which part is popping out at you?

Silently repeat this line or word or sentence. 

Today, whenever you walk through a door way, remember that part of scripture.

At the end of the day, consider what you learned from this scripture.  Why did God focus your mind on that particular part of scripture?

In our print prayer journals we have a space for Notes, Ideas, Drawings, and Observations.  Feel free to keep your own journal.  Or share your ideas, prayers, and observations in the comments section below.