‘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…’ (John 15: 5-6)

Ho often do we find ourselves in the position whereby we feel as if we’re getting nowhere with whatever it is we have set out to do. Despite our good intentions and best efforts still we feel as if no progress whatsoever is being made. at times like this we need to reflect on these words from John. All too often we turn to the Lord only when we feel as if we have no other option, but John reminds us here that we should we turning to the Lord first – apart from me you can do nothing.

‘…the Spirit gives us power, love and self-control…’ (2 Tim. 1:7)

Often when we think of power we think of something that equates to a show of strength and sadly we see power exercised selfishly in this kind of way so often in our world today, in a way whereby those exercising it show very little regard for others as they do so. Here, however, Paul reminds us that when it comes to God’s Holy Spirit, power is associated with characteristics such as love and self-control, and when we demonstrate characteristics such as these we are walking in the footsteps our our Saviour.

‘The Lord is good, His love is forever…’ (Psalm 100:5)

Life is full of change and it comes in all shapes and sizes. Even if we think we follow the same daily routine and go about our lives in the same way each day, a closer examination and reflection will surely reveal differences which have occurred. We as human beings change also – physically, emotionally and spiritually. We are the same person, but still we change. Sometimes, however, not all change is good and as a consequence this can impact upon our lives in a negative manner.

How good then is it to know that in amongst all of this there is one thing that never changes. It never has and it never will – and that is the love that God has for us, a love that is forever. So in this ever changing world and in our ever changing lives, let’s give thanks that in all of this we can trust and depend on the love of God – may this be a comfort and strength to us in all that we are and do.

‘Jesus said, “those who hear my words and believe in Him who sent me have eternal life…’ (John 5:24)

Take time now to reflect on these words from John’s Gospel and then give thanks to God for His redeeming love.

‘God have pity on me, a sinner…’ (Luke 18:13)

No matter how good our intentions or motives, the harsh reality is that we all fall short of God’s standards and succumb to sinful temptations. We might not wish to or choose to, nevertheless, we are only human and it happens. So take time now to come the Lord seeking His forgiveness.

‘Cast all your worries upon the Lord…’ (1 Peter 5:7)

As we go about our busy lives we are continually faced with circumstances which cause us to be anxious, concerned and worried. When those moments come take time to reflect on these words from 1 Peter and hand all our worries over to the Lord. They may nor suddenly disappear, but sharing them with the Lord removes so much of the burden from our own shoulders and knowing that He is sharing them with us helps us to face them with new hope and confidence.

‘I believe; help my unbelief…’ (Mark 9:24)

Pray that the Lord will increase your faith, no matter what comes your way, and that in this faith you will find the strength, inspiration and encouragement that you need in all things.

‘God is our shelter and strength always ready to help in times of trouble…’ (Psalm 46:1)

As we begin another year and look to the weeks and months ahead, take comfort and reassurance from these words of the Psalmist and know that the Lord is with you every step of the way, every single day.

During the season of Advent I would encourage you to visit the Advent Calendar on the Church of Scotland website, click on the relevant day and use this for your Daily Reflections. It can be accessed via this link:-

Light in the Darkness (adventcalendar.com)