Ever feel like life’s just one long to-do list? You’re showing up, clocking in, checking boxes—but deep down, something’s missing. You’re surviving, but not thriving.
This week, we kicked off our ministry-year theme, Thrive, and it’s all about moving from burnout to spiritual overflow. Pastor Jim opened with a story about a sad little coffee plant—despite all the care, it just wouldn’t flourish. Sound familiar? That plant is a metaphor for how many of us live: trying hard, doing all the “right” things, but still feeling stuck.
Thriving ≠ Hustling Harder
Culture tells us to hustle, optimize, and grind. But Jesus offers something radically different. In John 15, He drops the secret to a thriving life: “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” Translation? You don’t thrive by trying harder—you thrive by staying connected.
Think of your phone. It’s powerful, but without a charger, it’s just a fancy flashlight. Same with your soul. Disconnected from Jesus, we drain fast. But plugged into Him? We’re powered by peace, purpose, and fruit that actually matters.
When Thriving Feels Like Losing
Here’s the twist: sometimes thriving looks like pruning. Jesus says God cuts back fruitful branches so they can bear more fruit. That breakup, that job loss, that closed door—it might not be punishment. It might be preparation.
God loves you too much to let you look full but live empty. Pruning hurts, but it’s how we grow.
Stay Plugged In
Thriving isn’t about being impressive. It’s about being connected. It’s not about doing more—it’s about abiding more deeply. And when we thrive, it’s not our name that gets lifted up—it’s God’s.
