Rooted: 30 Days to Strengthen Your Faith Through StruggleSample

WEEK 3: Nourishing the Roots

Focus: Developing spiritual practices and a renewed mind to strengthen your identity in Christ.

Day 15: Staying Connected to the Vine

"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

There’s a difference between knowing about Jesus and staying connected to Him.

Many of us love Jesus. We believe in Him. But if we’re honest, we often live disconnected from Him. We're running on empty, trying to produce fruit on our own without having any roots.

And we wonder why we feel burnt out. Overwhelmed. Spiritually dry.

Jesus makes it plain: apart from Him, we can do nothing. Not “some things.” Not “a few good things.” Nothing.

It’s not a rebuke. It’s an invitation.

He is the Vine. The source. The life-giver. The one who sustains and strengthens us. And our job is to remain. To stay close. To draw near.

Not just in crisis, but in every ordinary moment. In fact, true connection comes from the daily time spent with Him in his word and in prayer.

But it's not JUST about Bible study time or prayer. It’s about walking with Him throughout your day. Being in a heart posture of constant communication and surrender. Pausing to check in with Him when anxiety flares. Asking His guidance before a hard conversation. Resting in His love when shame tries to creep in.

Remaining in Him is a posture of the heart. One that leads to fruitfulness, joy, and peace.

So if you've been trying to do this on your own, it’s time to reconnect. Not with striving, but with surrender.

Reflection Questions:

• What keeps you from staying spiritually connected?
• How can you abide more deeply today?
• What would change if you lived fully dependent on Christ?