FCA EnduranceSample

Train with Power

Ready

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” -- John 15:5

Set

Successful athletes train with GPS devices that provide critical feedback for their workouts and races. They measure heart rate, pace, time, and distance to name a few. These devices must be fully charged to operate effectively. If they are not connected to a power source, they will not be fully charged and able to do what they were designed to do.

When charging a device, a power cord connects it to the power source. Both are required to receive a full charge. Without the power cord, it is impossible to connect to the power source, and the device is useless. Additionally, this training aid has a GPS global positioning system that can only function if it is fully charged and has a strong signal.

This is a wonderful analogy of how we are to live the Christian life. In John 15, Jesus tells us 11 times that we are to remain in or stay connected to Him. He is the Vine (the power cord), the Father in the Gardener (the power source), and we are a branch (the device). Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing of spiritual significance. When we stay connected, we can do what He designed us to do. Jesus then goes on to say that we are to remain in His love, the first and second greatest commandment, to love God and love others.

When we stay connected to Christ and tap into His GPS, God's positioning system, we will have a clear signal and bear much fruit for His kingdom. When we are continually in His presence, we receive His power, purpose, protection, and provision. Let’s remember this power principle and share it with others.

Go

• In what ways do you daily “charge up,” staying connected to God?
• Think about times that you have been fully charged with God’s power versus times that you have not. What was the outcome?
• How can you encourage others to stay connected to Christ?

Workout

John 15, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Psalm 23, James 4:8

Overtime

Father, thank you for providing us with your power as we spend time in your presence. Help us to stay connected to you. Forgive us if we try on our strength. By your Holy Spirit, help us draw near and seek you first in all we do. Amen"