Our Part in Fruitfulness

John 15:1-8 is a profound passage on how to live a fruitful life for God with a simple message: "Abide in Christ." In fact, the specific word, "abide" is mentioned, seven times in this short passage. But "abide" is not a word we frequently use in our everyday lives. So what does it mean to abide? How do we obey the command? What is our part in producing spiritual fruit?

I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.

- John 15:1-8