Prayers that bear lasting fruit in every season
Author: Emily Rose Massey
Bible reading:
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you.” – John 15:16, ESV
Listen or read below:
From spring through fall, my husband and I enjoy taking our boys to the local farmers market on Saturday mornings. The whole family does their best to include fruits and vegetables in their diets, and this farmers market gives you plenty of options to fill your fridge with fresh produce. During the winter, markets are closed, so thankfully you can buy produce at your local grocery store, but I think the fruits and vegetables at this farmers market taste just a little bit fresher. Needless to say, I’m looking forward to spring and getting back to my favorite farmer’s market trips.
In John 15, Jesus tells us how much He wants us to bear spiritual fruit.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you” (John 15:16, ESV).
But what happens to our fruit production when we reach a seemingly spiritually barren place, the “winter” season? We all face a “winter” season in our lives, but we shouldn’t want to stay there or wish it to last forever. Difficult times in life can actually be times of growth and maturity in the Lord. In fact, tree roots extend deep into the earth during the winter. Instead of focusing on the difficult season you’re in, keep your eyes fixed on Christ and grow your roots deeper in Him.
If we are not firmly rooted and grounded in the truth of God (who is love) and His Word, we begin to lose the life that sustains us and are susceptible to depression. Rather than give in to despair, we need to allow our roots in Jesus to grow deeper and deeper. We use those times of trial to draw closer to the Lord and drink deeply of His goodness and faithfulness. In these dark times, the enemy wants you to dry up and rot physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. We must stay connected to Jesus, the Source of Life, the Vine.
I’ve experienced some pretty harsh winter seasons in my life. Thankfully, I had established a strong “root system” in the Lord and was surrounded by strong “oaks” of righteous people. If we are isolated during times like these and are not receiving proper nourishment from God’s Word, we are in trouble. To maintain mental health, it is important to be close to other trees and fruit-bearing trees. Their root systems provide us with “nourishment,” and their fruit provides us with “nourishment” when we are struggling to hang on to the vine.
Regardless of our circumstances, we must allow the fruit to ripen. Even if it seems hopeless, if you remain in Jesus, the vine, you will see abundance again. Be grateful for the small fruits you receive. But don’t stop there. Let the wine dresser take care of it. God has chosen you and desires for you to bear fruit. Just stay in God! If you are currently experiencing a “winter” season in your life, think of some believers you can approach for accountability in your life. Those “oaks of righteousness” often spur us on in our walk with the Lord. Perhaps you could meet up with a friend once a week to encourage each other and pray together, or meet up with a few friends to study the Bible together, watch fruit grow in you and those around you, and connect with others around you on the vine.
Let’s pray:
Dear Lord,
I know that Your grace is sufficient and that You always help me in times of need, but there are times when my actions do not reflect these truths. It’s much easier for me to complain about stressful, painful, difficult situations and try to fix or change things that seem to be about to overwhelm me. When I reach my breaking point or feel crushed under the weight of the suffering of the “winter season,” I need to come to you and ask for grace.
You are a loving Father who cares deeply for your children, and you are faithful to provide all that I need. Today I come to you as your child and boldly ask you to help me abide in the vine. I believe that you are faithful in every season, even though this season of suffering has no expiration date this side of eternity. May I use my life to bear lasting fruit in every season, no matter how difficult it may be.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
Share your thoughts on today’s devotion in the Daily Prayer discussion in the Crosswalk Forum.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/sripfoto
Emily Massey started writing short stories and poems at a young age, entered the world of blogging in her early twenties, and published her first book in 2015. While she enjoys being a homeschool mom to four boys, she is also able to pursue her passion as a writer. She believes much is forgiven, loves much, and desires to teach others about Christ and His saving and transforming power, especially by sharing the truths found in God’s written Word. To connect with Emily, please visit www.emilyrosemassey.com.
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