Object: A small tree with fruit (real or fake) or a picture of one
Verse: John 15:5 – “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.” (WEB)
Lesson: A tree can only produce fruit if it is healthy, rooted, and nourished. If it’s cut off from water, sunlight, or good soil, it will wither and stop producing. In the same way, our lives bear spiritual fruit—like joy, peace, kindness, and love—when we stay connected to Jesus. He is the source of our strength and life.
When we try to live on our own strength, apart from Christ, it’s like a branch trying to produce fruit after being cut off from the tree. It won’t work. But when we abide in Him—through prayer, His Word, and walking closely with Him—fruit grows naturally. Joy is not something we force; it’s the overflow of being rooted in Christ.
Application: Joy and peace come not from our circumstances, but from remaining close to Jesus. The more we know Him and rely on Him daily, the more our lives will display the “fruit” of His Spirit.
Reflection Questions:
- What helps you feel most connected to Jesus each day?
- Can you think of a time when God gave you joy even in hard circumstances?
- What kind of “fruit” do you want others to see in your life?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that You are the vine and I am one of Your branches. Keep me rooted in You so that my life produces fruit that honors You. Help me to stay close to You each day and to find my joy in You alone. Amen.