Today's Verse: John 15:16

Sunday, August 17, 2025

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
— John 15:16
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Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Were you ever the last one chosen at recess when kids were dividing up teams? Were you ever the one no one wanted on your team? Ouch. That hurts deeply. So, isn't it remarkable that God, the Creator of the universe, chose us in Jesus Christ, even before the beginning of the world (Ephesians 1:4)? Isn't it amazing that we are loved and desired by the King of the Ages and his Son, Jesus Christ! Not only that, we weren't chosen out of pity, but chosen to make a difference for the Kingdom of God by bearing fruit that will endure. To help ensure our fruitfulness, Jesus promised that we can ask for God's blessing on our work for His Kingdom, and God will bless us with it. Incredible!

My Prayer...

Give me a heart, O God, that is open to your work and a vision that is as expansive as your grace. May my prayers ask for things that bring you glory, expand the borders of your kingdom, and reach beyond the limited things that so often distract me. I invite you to do great things for your Kingdom through me as I remain connected wholeheartedly to Jesus, to your glory. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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5 Related Resources by Heartlight

His Choice
Illustration of John 15:16
Inspirational illustration of John 15:16 -- You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Freed to Love
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"[Jesus continued,] "I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn't confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you..."
Chosen by God!
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Imagine never being picked last! Paul Faulkner reminds us that God chose us, and still chooses us, every time for his team.
Why Doesn't God Answer My Prayers?
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What happened to Jesus' promise? Ron Rose writes about unanswered prayers and letting God find us and us having conversations with our heavenly Father.
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Illustration

Illustration of John 15:16 — You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

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About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

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