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.
John 15:6b
Many have read Jesus’ words and assumed that it means we lose our salvation if we do not remain in Him. That is not what is being said. Our salvation is not dependent upon what we do in our relationship with Christ. However, as we choose to connect with Christ in relationship it does determine the quality of our life with Him. Take a look at 1 Corinthians 3:11-15. Here Paul is making the same point as Jesus, but instead of a Vine/Branches analogy, Paul uses building (our works) and foundation (Jesus) analogy.
11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.
While we cannot lose our salvation, the quality of our life in Christ is determined by where we place our priorities. If we place our priorities on things of earth (money, clothes, drama, material things, etc.) life will be somewhat meaningless. If we place our priorities on Jesus and the things that are important to Him, we will be rewarded for that. Either way we are saved. But, one life will be better than the other.
PRAY and ask God to help you shift your priorities to what is important to Him. Consider things that you can ‘let go’ of to focus on that which is important to Christ. Maybe it is to text less and pray more. Maybe it is spend less on clothes and more on giving to others in need. Whatever it is, you can know it will be a better life!
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