Introduction

22 For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers together until now. 23 Not only this, but we ourselves also… —Romans 8:22-23a

“I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. 2 He takes away every branch that does not bear fruit in me. He prunes every branch that bears fruit so that it will bear more fruit. 3 You are clean already because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me – and I in him – bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing. —John 15:1-5 (NET)

3 Power Tools of Life Transformation

A relationship with Jesus

11 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. —1 John 5:11

Filling of the Spirit

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. —Galatians 5:22-23

Prayer

16 Therefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace whenever we need help. —Hebrews 4:16

Study Guide

1. How have you witnessed that you are powerless to change your child, spouse, parent, friend, or yourself?

2. What “power tool” do you tend to default to in your relationships?

3. Why do we settle for these “tools” when we know they don’t work long-term and God is the only One who can produce change?

4. How can you begin to take steps with a powerful and loving Redeemer in view?

PRINCIPLE TO PROCESS
Recognizing what you are unable to do is essential for any beneficial relationship.