Introduction

A verse or passage for the New Year

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of 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.   John 15:4-5 (ESV)

What does it mean to abide in Christ? To abide in our crucified and risen Lord means to be at one with his person, will and purpose by remaining in personal communion with him so that we bear good fruit that is pleasing to the Father.

How can we abide in Christ this year?

1. Abide in Christ through the practice of thanksgiving rather than complaining. 

Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.  Psalm 50:14-15 

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of the lips that acknowledge his name.   Hebrews 13:15

2. The pruning away of the dead branches – the sin of complaining and grumbling

• Allowing the grace of God to prune (cleanse) us from the sin of complaining

3. The training of the good branches to bear fruit through the practice of thanksgiving and praise.

• A simple practice for training the branches so we might bear good fruit: Every day write down three things you are thankful for and then share them with someone else. 
• A simple prayer to practice daily: “Thank you, Father.”

Conclusion and Call to Respond