Today, I want to highlight a fundamental truth that underpins our faith and our lives: without God, we are nothing. For some of you reading this message this may sound harsh or daunting, but it’s a profound reality that brings us closer to understanding our true purpose and the boundless grace of Almighty God.
Jesus tells us in 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.” Here, Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches to illustrate our complete dependence on Him. Just as branches cannot survive or bear fruit without being connected to the vine, we cannot fully thrive or fulfill our purpose without being connected to Jesus.
Let’s think about our daily lives. How often do we rely on our own strength, wisdom, and understanding? The world encourages self-sufficiency, telling us that we can achieve anything if we just try hard enough. But the Bible teaches us a different lesson.Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Our achievements, our successes, and our victories are not by our might but through the strength that Christ provides.
Consider the story of David and Goliath. Young David did not defeat the giant because he was stronger or more skilled than Goliath. He triumphed because he trusted in the Lord’s power rather than his own. 1 Samuel 17:47 says, “It is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s.”
My brothers and sisters, in our individual journeys, it’s critically important to acknowledge our limitations and embrace God’s omnipotence. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trusting in God means surrendering our plans and our will to Him, believing that He knows what is best for us.
At the end of the day and before the beginning of time, God authored a unique plan for each one of us. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” When we align our lives with His will, we find true fulfillment and peace.
So, how do we live out this truth daily? James 1:22 says and I will paraphrase it, “Don’t just sit and listen to the word of God, apply it.” You see, applying God’s word into our everyday lives begins with prayer, seeking God’s guidance in every decision, big or small. It involves immersing ourselves in His Word, allowing His teachings to shape our actions and thoughts. And it requires us to lean on our community of faith (church), encouraging and supporting one another in our walk with God.
I openly invite you to reflect on the areas of your life where you may be relying on your own strength and then commit to surrendering those areas to God, trusting that He will provide what you need. Remember, without God, we are nothing—but with Him, we can do all things.
4GIVEN 