*This weekly newsletter will share about the Bible Breakdown podcast, things about RLC, and my favorite things from around the web. My prayer is it will help you know God better.
Hello friends. Happy Saturday!
Life often pulls us in a hundred different directions. We try to keep up—with work, family, ministry, and everything else—but somewhere along the way, we start to feel spiritually dry. Jesus knew this would happen, which is why He gave us a powerful reminder in John 15. He didn’t say, “Do more.” He said, “Stay connected.” The strength we need for each day flows from remaining close to Him.
🎧 My Favorite BibleBreakdown Episode This Week>>>
📚 Scripture. 💪
(John 15:5) — “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.”
Observation: In this verse, Jesus uses the image of a vine and branches to illustrate the believer’s dependence on Him. A branch doesn’t produce fruit on its own—it must stay connected to the vine where the life-giving sap flows. Jesus reminds His disciples that true spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, and all the rest—comes from Him alone. When we try to live the Christian life through our own strength, we eventually burn out. But when we abide in Him—through prayer, Scripture, and daily surrender—His life flows through us naturally. Fruit is not forced; it’s produced as a result of connection. This is the difference between religion and relationship, between striving and abiding.
Application: Today, take a moment to evaluate your connection to Jesus. Are you relying on your own effort or on His presence? Spend time with Him, not because you “should,” but because your soul needs it. Make space to pray, read His Word, or be still in His presence. The more you stay connected to the Vine, the more His life will overflow through yours.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the source of my strength and joy. Help me to stay connected to You in the busyness of life. Teach me to rest in Your presence and trust that You will produce fruit through me. I can’t do this without You—so today, I choose to remain in You.
Join Our Facebook Community and Share Your Insights
✍️ My Blog.
Brandon Cannon
🖤 My Favorite Links This Week.
📣 Sermon/Testimony. In Defense of Hope (Jackie Hill Perry)
Jackie Hill Perry powerfully addresses the rise of hopelessness and anchors hope in the resurrection of Christ rather than superficial circumstances. The talk combines honest personal testimony, deep scriptural insight, and cultural relevance to speak to modern souls in need. It’s an excellent listen for those feeling disconnected or spiritually tired, offering fresh vision and courage.
🤔 Apologetics. Truth: Absolute or Relative?
This article overviews the postmodern claim that truth is relative, contrasts it with the Christian claim of absolute truth grounded in God, and outlines why the relativist position collapses under its own logic. It gives historical context and present-day survey data about how many in the church also struggle with relativistic beliefs. Useful for understanding both the cultural influence and internal church implications.
✍️ Going Deeper. How to Do In-Depth Bible Study in Three Steps
What it offers: This article walks you through choosing a study method, understanding the stages of Bible study (plan → observe → interpret → apply), and gathering tools to help you go deeper. It helps move you from casual reading to sustained, intentional engagement with Scripture.
✍️ Quote of the Week That Makes You Think
“Once you become aware that the main business you are here for is to know God, most of life’s problems fall into place of their own accord." — J.I. Packer
🤪 Dad Joke of the week
Why did the turkey join a band?
Because it already had the drumsticks! 🥁
When life feels overwhelming, remember—you were never meant to do it all on your own. Jesus isn’t asking you to be stronger; He’s inviting you to stay closer. The power to love, forgive, and persevere doesn’t come from trying harder—it comes from abiding deeper. Stay connected to the Vine this week, and watch what God produces in your life.
🤪 Meme of the week
