I am the true vine

In His typical metaphorical way, the Savior taught His disciples a powerful leadership lesson when He declared, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. . . . Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. . . He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing." (John 15:1-5). Later he explained that to abide in Him or His love required that they keep his commandments.

The leadership lesson is clear, we cannot, if we wish to exercise productive divine influence, do it without Him. As we seek His will and conform to it, we partake of His love and His power in our lives. Others see and feel that there is something unique about us and they are more willing to follow. Spiritual power is the true source of leadership influence. What are you doing to strengthen you connection to Christ so that you can bear fruit in him? I would suggest that you consider 3 practices that will strengthen the connection:

1) Start and end your day with God. Develop a morning and evening practice that helps you to connect at a spiritual level. Whatever you do, seek to make a connection, not just go through the motions. It should be something that allows you to feel God's love.

2) Develop a "Remember Him" practice throughout the day. Have something that reminds you of and helps you reconnect throughout the day. Again, it should help you feel His love. Maybe you have something on your desk at work that reminds you to pause and think of Him. Maybe it is something you wear like a ring, wristband/bracelet, necklace, etc. Maybe it is something that you do at certain times during the day like pausing to express gratitude. Whatever it is, make sure it is something that helps you reconnect and abide in His love.

3) Pray often to know His will. When you are making important decisions, pause to pray for divine direction. When you are feeling strong emotions, pause to pray for peace. When things are going well, pause to express gratitude. The more you connect, the more you will abide in Him and be able to bear fruit.