The building of our foundation of faith begins first with our personal relationship with Jesus, the Vine, and second with our spiritual nourishment or discipleship. The Vine nourishes us, the branches, strengthening our foundation. This is vital because Jesus says, “apart from me you can do nothing.”
As my faith grows, I’ll need to grow in discipline. When I was a kid, several of us would meet with a leader who helped us memorize Scripture. It took discipline. Even today I have to work at hiding God’s Word in my heart. I’ll also need to grow in love, living and offering Christ’s love which never fails. My growing faith will be marked by a teachable heart. “I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws” (Psalm 119:7).
When my own diligence to fully obey the Lord slips and falls short, I know that Jesus who is the true Vine is the source of all growth. If I flourish at all, it is because of Him. Will you make Jesus the Lord of your life and come to know His life-giving spirit today?