. Good morning church and a very warm welcome to Sunrise Family for those joining us for the first time. Developing and nurturing a good relationship with God is a deeply personal and trans formative experience that can bring immense joy, peace, and purpose to one's life. In today's fast-paced and often chaotic world, maintaining a connection with God can provide a powerful anchor, offering solace in times of distress and guidance in times of uncertainty.
At the heart of a good relationship with God is faith – a profound trust in His wisdom, love, and plan for our lives. By placing our trust in God, we acknowledge that He is the ultimate source of all goodness and that His will is far greater than our own. This act of surrender opens the door to a deeper relationship built on humility, respect, and gratitude. John records Jesus discussing this fundamental idea with his disciples in the story famously phrased as “I am the Vine you are the branches”
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
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. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.
7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. ( John 15:1-11)
In V4 Jesus passionately calls on his disciples to remain in him as the branch can only remain in the vine tree to produce fruits, this expression of connection grantees the communication between to enable the production of the fruits. Communication is another essential component of a strong relationship with God. Prayer serves as a direct line of communication with God, allowing us to express our hopes, fears, and gratitude openly and honestly. Through prayer, we not only speak to God but also listen for His gentle whispers of guidance and comfort. Just as in any relationship, active listening and open dialogue are crucial for fostering a sense of closeness and understanding. Moreover, regular spiritual practices such as attending Sunday services, studying scripture, and participating in Evangelism outreach activities can deepen our connection with God and strengthen our faith. These rituals provide opportunities for reflection, growth, and fellowship, creating a supportive environment for nurturing our relationship with God.
Ultimately, being in a good relationship with God is a lifelong journey filled with growth, learning, and transformation. It requires commitment, patience, and an open heart willing to receive His love and guidance. By cultivating a deep and intimate connection with God, we can experience the profound joy and peace that comes from walking hand in hand with our Father, knowing that His love will always sustain us. Amen！
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