by Stanley D. Gale
This book, another small paperback published by Reformation Heritage Books, has as its subject one of the most important passages from the Bible for the believer, John 15.15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser.2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 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.
5 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. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
The author carefully draws from the different aspects of this important chapter, creating thought-provoking and heart-searching chapters in his small paperback book. The book is separated into thirteen chapters:
1. Fruit of the Vine
2. My Father, the Gardener
3. No Ordinary Love
4. Joy Inexpressible
5. Peace beyond Understanding
6. The Leaven of Patience
7. Not-So-Random Kindness
8. Gracious Goodness
9. A Great Faithfulness
10. Gentle Strength
11. Self-Control or Willpower?
12. Potent Humility
13. Grace Grown
I personally was delighted with this book. It was so easy to concentrate on and give my full attention to. Not only were the chapters of reasonable length, but the author also has a way of writing which engages the reader's full mind. The chapters were not dry or above the reader's head. Instead, they went straight to the heart. To mine at least. The author, Mr. Gale also writes with many illustrations including stories from his own life which especially help the reader apply the lessons.
I highly recommend this book! It is perfect to give as a gift to Christian friends, and its small size makes it wonderful for reading on travels.
''We must abide in Christ so that the fruit of character change in our lives is not the product of self-will or best effort. Such efforts at love or joy or patience will be meager and short-lived....We want the fruit of a changed life to grow from the inside out by the hand of our God. ''
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I was pleased to receive this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review.
I was pleased to receive this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review.
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