Today's Good News

04/23           John 15:4-5

“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.”

Key Points:

  1. Abiding in Christ is Essential for Growth – Without Him, we wither (Psalm 92:12-13).
  2. Fruitfulness is the Result of Connection – A thriving life is evidence of abiding (Galatians 5:22-23).
  3. We Cannot Grow by Our Own Strength – Growth comes through surrender (Zechariah 4:6).
  4. Spiritual Growth Requires Dependence – Remaining in Him means seeking Him daily (Matthew 6:33).

HOLD ME NEAR


Like a branch reaching high,
Yet empty without the vine,
My soul finds life in You,
My strength comes from Your hand.


No striving can bring the fruit,
No effort can make me whole,
Only in You, only in trust,
Do my roots go deep.


Abide in me, You whisper still,
Draw near, and I will stay,
Not by works, not by fear,
But by love that holds me close.


Apart from You, I fade away,
A leaf that dries and falls,
Yet in Your grace, I will remain,
And bear the fruit You give.


Hold me near, keep me strong,
Let my heart abide in You,
Not for pride, not for gain,
But for the life You call me to.

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Clay Corvin

Clay Corvin is currently a Bible Teacher and occasional preacher at Bethel Community Baptist Church in New Orleans. He is the retired VP Business and Professor of Admin at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary after completing 38 years as their Business Administrator. He was the pastor at the Brantley Baptist Center for twenty-five years. He is married to Carol Corvin and the father of three children and has three grandchildren. He ministers today as Co-pastor of the Bethel Community Baptist Church and seeks to share the Gospel with everyone. Jesus is Lord!