Sunday Morning Reflection – March 9, 2025:
John 15:1-17 – Are You a Standard Bearer or a Standard Burden?
Presented by Bubba Dixon
As we reflect on John 15:1-17 today, we are faced with some important questions about our role as Christians: Are we a standard bearer or a standard burden? Are we truly embodying the fruits of Christ, or are we simply going through the motions, ultimately fruitless in our faith?
One crucial point to consider: What are you going through to get better? Growth in Christ isn’t automatic—it requires effort, intention, and sometimes difficult conversations. If you are not careful, you may end up stagnant, missing out on the abundant life Christ offers.
Don’t Be Afraid of Crucial Conversations in Christ.
Sometimes we shy away from tough conversations, whether it’s about our faith or relationships. But God calls us to engage, to communicate, and to be part of each other’s growth in Him. Don’t shy away from these moments—they can lead to breakthroughs and deeper connections.
Loving God with All of Your Soul, Mind, Heart, and Spirit.
It’s easy to love God with part of our being. But Jesus calls us to love God with our entire being—our soul, mind, heart, and spirit. When we do this, we invite His presence to transform every area of our lives, making our love for Him more complete.
Changing the Dynamic of Someone’s Moment.
Think about the last time you entered a room or interacted with someone. Did you bring energy? Did you lift their spirits, or did you unintentionally bring them down? We all have the power to change someone’s moment, simply by showing up with the right heart and the right mindset.
Check Your Joy Level.
Your joy is contagious, but it’s also a reflection of your own relationship with Christ. Check your joy level—are you bringing life, or are you allowing negativity to steal your peace? Take a moment to reflect: Are you walking in the joy that comes from being deeply rooted in Him?
The Burden of Priorities.
Sometimes, people’s priorities are holding them back from growing in Christ. We often place importance on things that aren’t eternal, and in doing so, we miss the opportunities God places before us. Ask yourself: What is taking up too much of your energy that might be hindering your growth?
God’s Command to Love.
There are times when God will call us to step outside our comfort zone. Maybe He asks you to go love a friend, or perhaps to spend time with someone who needs you, rather than focusing on something else. Are you listening to His command to love, even when it’s inconvenient?
The Power of Showing Love.
Love isn’t just about spending time alone or retreating into your own world—it’s about engaging with others. Showing love means stepping out of your own comfort zone and offering your time, your heart, and your energy to those around you. Keep an eye out for the opportunities to show love, because God places them in our paths every day.
Luke 11:1-13 – Abiding in God’s Love
In Luke 11:1-13, we are reminded of the importance of prayer and our relationship with God. What times do you specifically abide in the love of God? Do you truly have a relationship with Him, or is your connection based on mere rituals?
We are cautioned to be mindful of what we ask, seek, and knock for—sometimes, we might ask for things that are not aligned with God’s will. Be careful not to harden your heart and allow selfish desires to cloud your prayers. Instead, pray for more love, more power, and more God in your life. Above all, bear fruit in everything you do.
As we go about our week, let’s remember to check ourselves and our priorities. Let’s be standard bearers of Christ—spreading His love and light in every area of our lives.