As we enter another year, New Year’s resolutions are being made all over the world. It has always been an important part of entering the New Year because this habit brings focus to our goals. It is made with determination to improve oneself for the next year.

Jesus’ last “I Am” statement holds the key to simplifying our new year’s resolution list to include the ones that really matter. John 15:5 says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Jesus already gave us the key to a better and brighter future – remain in Him. We can make the most noble of goals we wish to achieve, but if we do it without remaining in Him – our life source – then all of it is futile. Remain in Christ, for it is the only source of abundance not only for us but for the people in our sphere of influence.

How do we remain in the vine? By abiding in His Word and spending time with Him.

Our devotional time must be one that is a devoted time with God, meaning it should be a sacred time where we meet in fellowship with our Maker. As we do so, we will be gaining nutrition from the vine, nutrition that we need in order for us to bear fruit.