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Divine Note #50 – Are you tied securely to the vine? John 15:5

March 6, 2010

Are you tied securely to the vine?
John 15:5 (NLT) “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.”

Lately my life has been a flurry of activity between my work, family, personal and ministry commitments. I maintain my scheduled time with God, but I have been allowing distractions to take me away from spending intimate quality time really listening and being honest with him.

When I allow distractions (fill in the blank) to consume my mind, it opens me up to temptations that I cannot afford to succumb to. When I’m distracted, I will not talk out loud about whatever is in my heart, instead I just “think” about things. When I think about things, I tend to justify my feelings. You get the picture. It all comes back to haunt me and it impacts the intimate relationship I have with the Savior of my Soul. The enemy and my old habits take over and I find myself unable to move past what I feel instead of focusing on the power of the Holy Spirit that I have when I am tied to the vine of life.

I don’t have to tell you how easy it is to succumb to our inherent weaknesses especially for those of us in ministry. It’s easy to think that you can handle life alone. You can’t. I’m working on being more open with the closest people in my life. I’m also confiding in my spiritual directors.

Today I spent a cathartic day in deep, heart-revealing conversation with one of my best friends. In revealing my heart amid free-flowing tears, I was also able to learn more about the heart of my friend. I gained a new perspective and suggestions for how to deal with life. Plus, I learned that I have awesome friends that I can count on – no matter what!

Tips to keep you on track
Proverbs 4:23 (NCV) Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.

1. Stop and talk to God about those things you don't mention in prayer.

2. Realize that your thoughts impact your feelings, which determine what actions you take.

3. If you are weak in a certain area, talk out loud to God and confess it to a trusted friend.

4. Activate your trusted prayer warriors.

5. Keep a continuous conversation with the Lord.

6. When you tell God what is really going on, you get the ability to face up to it.

7. Once you get God’s answer, take action to get back on track.

All Christians have God's Spirit in their lives. But you tap into his power, protection and promises when you stay connected to the vine. Do not allow yourself to get distracted! The Lord needs each one of us to be his hands, heart and feet!

Remember that you are loved by God, you are approved by God and regardless of how you feel, he loves you unconditionally!

Big God Hugs and Love!
Blanca


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