Staying Rooted in Christ Through Every Season

 

Life is full of shifting seasons—some filled with sunshine and fruitfulness, others clouded by uncertainty and pruning. Recently, my own life has leaned into the latter. With unexpected health concerns in our family and a growing list of responsibilities, I’ve found myself running low on strength. Yet through it all, there’s been one unshakable truth holding me steady: I am connected to the Vine.

In John 15, Jesus gives us this powerful image:

“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.” (John 15:5)

This metaphor speaks to the heart of what it means to abide in Christ. It’s not just a spiritual idea—it’s the very posture of our hearts, especially when life gets hard. As I’ve sat with this Scripture during a challenging season, I’ve come to see three deeply interconnected aspects of abiding in Jesus: connection, dependence, and continuance.

Abiding starts with a vital connection to Jesus. Just like a branch must be attached to the vine to live and grow, we must be joined to Christ. This is what the Bible calls “union with Christ”—a mutual, life-giving relationship where we dwell in Him, and He dwells in us (John 15:4). Without this connection, there is no spiritual life and no lasting fruit.

This isn’t a distant or abstract idea. It’s deeply personal. Jesus isn't merely someone we follow—He’s the very source of our life. When we trust in Him, we are grafted into His life, and we begin to bear the fruit of that relationship.

While connection is mutual, dependence is one-sided. A branch depends entirely on the vine for its nutrients, water, and support—but the vine doesn’t need the branch. In the same way, we are completely dependent on Jesus for everything that matters in our spiritual lives. He is our strength when we are weak. He is our peace in chaos. He is the grace that carries us through the day.

Jesus says plainly, “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” That’s not a gentle suggestion—it’s a bold reminder. No amount of effort, planning, or striving can substitute for what Jesus provides through His Spirit. His grace is our “sap”—the nourishment that flows from Him into every part of our lives.

And I’ve felt that dependence deeply in recent weeks. When fatigue set in and the future looked overwhelming, I found myself drawing strength from the Vine—often moment by moment. Sometimes all I could do was whisper a prayer or turn to a verse for comfort. But even in those small acts of trust, His strength was there, sustaining me.

To “abide” means more than to connect—it means to stay. The Greek word for “abide” (meno) also means to remain, dwell, or endure. It speaks of commitment. Not a fleeting connection, but a daily choice to stay rooted in Christ, even when things get tough.

Jesus doesn’t invite us into a temporary fix. He invites us into a lasting relationship. Abiding means choosing to remain in His love, to continue in His Word, and to trust Him through every storm and every joy. It means holding fast when our emotions falter, and persevering in faith when life feels uncertain.

This is what Jesus meant in John 8:31–32:

“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Abiding is what transforms us. It’s what sets us free. And it’s something that grows deeper over time.

Jesus continues the vine metaphor by talking about pruning. In gardening, pruning isn’t punishment—it’s preparation. It removes what’s dead or unfruitful so the plant can thrive. It clears the way for stronger, healthier growth.

“Every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2)

I’ve felt the sharp edge of pruning lately. Life has stripped away comforts and forced me to slow down. But even in the hardship, I’ve sensed God’s hand lovingly at work—cutting back what isn’t essential, re-aligning my heart with His, and preparing me for something new.

Pruning, though painful, is an act of love.

Beyond pruning, grapevines also need support structures—like trellises—to grow upward and bear fruit. Without that structure, the vine would sprawl along the ground, vulnerable to pests, disease, and rot.

We, too, need support. God gives us the framework for healthy spiritual growth:

• His Word, to guide us
• Prayer, to stay connected
• Community, to encourage us
• Worship, to lift our hearts
• His presence, as our steady anchor

After pruning, gardeners nourish the vine with fertilizer and mulch. Likewise, after hardship, we need spiritual nourishment: time with God, rest, reflection, and encouragement. These things help our faith root deeply and grow again—stronger, more fruitful.

Here’s the truth I’m clinging to: abiding in Jesus isn’t about achieving something—it’s about remaining in someone. It’s not about climbing higher, doing more, or pushing harder. It’s about staying connected to the One who already did everything for us.

Abiding doesn’t require a spiritual breakthrough or dramatic moment. It’s lived out in small, faithful steps: keeping His words in our heart, leaning on His grace, resting in His love. It’s remembering that no matter what life throws at us, we are still in the Vine—and He is still with us.

Whether you’re in a season of growth, pruning, or simply holding on, I want to encourage you: Stay rooted. Stay connected. Stay with Jesus. He is your source. He is your strength. He is your stability.

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.” – John 15:9

Finding Strength in Stress: How Faith Builds Resilience

 

Stress is an unavoidable part of life. It comes in many forms, some that challenge us to grow and others that feel overwhelming. Stress itself is not inherently bad—it can motivate us to take action when we might otherwise remain stagnant. This type of positive stress (eustress) can encourage us to step out in faith, learn new skills, and persevere. However, negative stress (distress), when left unmanaged, can lead to anxiety, despair, and a sense of hopelessness. The Bible reminds us in James 1:2-4, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." God does not promise us a life without struggles, but He does promise to walk with us through them, shaping us into stronger, more faithful people.

Stress can arise from multiple sources—some within our control and others beyond it. Personal and household stress can come from poor lifestyle choices such as substance abuse and unhealthy relationships, as well as family struggles like divorce, mental illness, and domestic abuse. Additionally, neglect and trauma, whether emotional, physical, or sexual, can create a heavy burden on an individual. Beyond the home, community and environmental stressors add to life's difficulties. Economic hardships, such as job loss and poor housing conditions, can place a strain on individuals and families. Social challenges like discrimination and violence create additional stress, while natural disasters—wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and pandemics—bring unforeseen crises. On a global scale, conflicts and wars result in unimaginable suffering. While these stressors may seem insurmountable, we are not left defenseless. God gives us the tools to navigate these difficulties with faith, resilience, and purpose.

Resilience is our ability to bounce back from adversity, and faith plays a crucial role in developing that strength. Psalm 46:1 tells us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." When we feel burdened by stress, we can lean on Him for comfort and guidance. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." No matter what challenges we face, we are never alone—Christ equips us to endure and overcome. Through prayer and time in God’s Word, we align our hearts with His purpose. Romans 8:28 assures us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." Even in hardship, God is working behind the scenes for our ultimate good.

Faith is not passive—it calls us to take action in how we handle stress. One key way to develop resilience is by relying on community support. We are not meant to face struggles alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." Surrounding ourselves with faith-filled relationships provides encouragement, wisdom, and strength. Another critical aspect of resilience is controlling our responses. While we cannot always control our circumstances, we can control how we react. 2 Timothy 1:7 declares, "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline." When faced with stress, we can choose faith over fear. Additionally, embracing problem-solving and adaptability is essential. The Bible is full of examples of individuals who adapted in times of crisis. Consider Joseph in Egypt—what his brothers intended for evil, God used for good (Genesis 50:20). Like Joseph, we must remain open to new solutions, trusting that God is guiding us. Lastly, resilience is not just about personal survival; it is about helping others along the way. Galatians 6:2 urges us, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you fulfill the law of Christ." Acts of service not only ease others' stress but also strengthen our own faith and sense of purpose.

Stress is inevitable, but through faith, we can navigate life’s difficulties with confidence and hope. God has given us the strength, wisdom, and community we need to overcome. If you are struggling with overwhelming stress today, take heart—God is with you. Seek His presence, lean on your community, and take small, faithful steps forward. As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Difficulties will come, but they do not have to define us. When we turn to God, He transforms our trials into testimonies, our burdens into blessings, and our weaknesses into strength. No matter what storms you face, stand firm in the knowledge that you are deeply loved, guided, and equipped for victory. Let your faith be your anchor, your resilience be your testimony, and your life be a light for others who are struggling. You are never alone—God is always with you, leading you toward peace, purpose, and hope.

Clearing the Clogs: Overcoming Fear with God’s Truth

 

Not long ago, we faced a frustrating situation—our sewer pipe got clogged. After some investigation, we discovered the culprit: a stubborn root had grown into the pipe, blocking the flow of water. As I reflected on this, I realized how much this mirrors the way fear from past experiences can creep into our minds, slowly restricting the flow of God’s peace and truth in our lives. Even when we know that God is in control and that He loves us, old fears have a way of resurfacing, holding us hostage in ways we don’t always recognize.

Fear often takes root subtly, just like that small root in our pipe. It starts with a past failure, a painful memory, or a lingering doubt. Over time, these fears can grow, wrapping around our thoughts until they restrict the way we think and live. Instead of walking confidently in God’s promises, we hesitate, feeling trapped by what we’ve been through. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Yet, despite knowing this, we often allow fear to dictate our decisions, just as a blocked pipe prevents water from flowing freely.

But here’s the good news: God has given us the power to clear out these spiritual clogs. 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Fear is not from God, and when we recognize that, we can begin the process of removing it. Just as a plumber must identify the blockage in a pipe before clearing it, we must recognize the fears and lies that are restricting our faith. Are we afraid of failure? Rejection? Disappointment? Whatever it is, we can bring it to God, trusting that He has already provided the strength we need to overcome it.

One of the most effective ways to break free from fear is through prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When we surrender our fears to God, His peace flows in like a rushing stream, clearing out the blockages that anxiety and worry create.

However, it’s not just about removing fear—it’s about replacing it with truth. Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Just as a pipe must be kept clear to function properly, our minds need to be regularly renewed by God’s Word. The more we fill our hearts with His truth, the less room there is for fear to take root.

Letting go of fear is not always a one-time fix—it’s a daily process of surrendering to God and allowing Him to work in us. Hebrews 12:1 urges us to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” Fear is a weight that slows us down, but when we cast it off, we can move forward in faith and confidence. And the best part? John 8:32 reminds us, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The truth is that God is bigger than our fears, stronger than our past, and fully in control of our future.

So, just as we had to remove that stubborn root to restore the flow in our pipe, we must also remove the roots of fear that block our faith. When we do, God’s love, peace, and truth can flow freely in our lives, filling us with confidence and joy. Whatever fears are holding you back today, take them to God—He’s ready to clear them out and set you free.

Out of Control .........

 

The recent apocalyptic events in Southern California have shaken many of us. Whether you’ve experienced it personally, know a family member, or have a dear friend impacted, the effects ripple through our lives. It’s a sobering reminder that there are events we cannot control. Yet, the temptation to fret and worry can easily consume us, even when there is nothing we can do to change the outcome. Watching the endless news reports often stirs up a whirlwind of emotions—our stomachs churn, our hearts race, and our minds refuse to stop replaying the events. These are all natural reactions because God created us with an ability to sense and respond to trouble in our world.

This awareness is not necessarily a bad thing. God designed us to care for others in their struggles and to recognize when danger is present. It can also be an invitation to turn to Him as our refuge in times of trouble. However, when we allow anxiety to overtake us, it often shifts from being helpful to harmful. Anxiety can act like a warning light on the dashboard of a train—blinking red to alert us that there’s danger nearby, whether in our external world or within our hearts. But when we ignore the warning signs, that light can escalate into a blaring horn. Suddenly, our hearts race faster, our emotions spiral, and our physical bodies respond with unpleasant symptoms that signal we are heading toward a crash.

Anxiety, like all emotions, has the potential to take control if we let it. It can grow out of proportion, fed by either real trouble or imagined scenarios we’ve created in our minds. In these moments, it can feel like the train of our lives is careening downhill with no brakes, gaining speed as we lose control. How we respond to these situations is deeply revealing—it shows us what we have placed at the center of our hearts. Is it fear? Worry? Or is it trust in God?

Whatever we organize our lives around—our worries, desires, or fears—often becomes the fuel driving the train. If we’re not careful, we can forget who the true conductor is. The good news is that God is always in control, even when our lives feel chaotic. Psalm 94:19 speaks to this truth: “When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.” Even when our inner thoughts are racing and out of control, God’s comfort is available to bring us peace.

We must remind ourselves that God is not only the Creator of the universe but also the One who holds our lives in His hands. He knows every obstacle ahead, every twist and turn in the journey. And here’s the key: God has no intention of hopping off the train. He is with us through every dark tunnel, every broken rail, and even through the fires that seem impossible to endure. His promise is to strengthen, comfort, and guide us through it all. But we must choose to surrender control to Him instead of relying on our own limited understanding.

When we face life’s inevitable challenges, we must rely on God’s Word as our operational guide. Here are some truths to hold onto:

1. Bring your troubles to God: Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When anxiety begins to take hold, don’t try to bear it alone. Take your concerns to God in prayer. Be honest with Him about your struggles and thank Him for His faithfulness. When you do, His peace will guard your heart and mind, even in the middle of chaos.
2. Focus on what is true: When our minds are consumed with worry, we need to redirect our thoughts to God’s truth. Philippians 4:8 teaches us, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” God calls us to park our minds on the things that reflect His goodness and character, rather than allowing fear or negativity to take the lead.
3. Handle the problem God’s way: Philippians 4:9 says, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” God has provided us with wisdom and examples through His Word. When we follow His principles and trust in His ways, we’ll experience His peace, even in the midst of life’s storms.
4. Trust God and His timing: Finally, Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t match our expectations. Trusting in His strength allows us to face even the most difficult circumstances with courage and hope.

Life will undoubtedly bring moments of trouble. There will be times when the train must pass through fallen trees, dark tunnels, and fiery trials. But we can rest in the promise that God is always with us. He sees the rail ahead and has already planned a way through. Rather than letting fear take control of the train, let’s place our faith in the One who has never failed us. When we trust Him to guide us, we’ll discover His peace, comfort, and strength—no matter what lies ahead.