It Starts Small

³ I am my love’s and my love is mine;
he feeds among the lilies.

Songs 6:3

The journey culminates in a glorious union. After enduring pain, relentless pursuit, and the necessary pruning, the bride proclaims with fierce confidence: “I am my love’s and my love is mine.” There is no room for hesitation, no time for delay. This is the exquisite fruit of tested love – an unshakable bond that defies the ordinary. It transcends mere youthful infatuation; it is deep-rooted intimacy. She is firmly aware of her identity and the one to whom she belongs, and he echoes the sentiment. He lovingly tends His flock among the lilies—a vivid depiction of nurturing, peace, and unwavering presence. This is the ultimate gift of surrendered love: not a retreat from seeking, but a profound rest in communion. We never cease to grow; rather, we flourish from a place of assurance, not frenetic striving.

¹⁶ You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you.

John 15:16

Jesus passionately reminds us that we are not the initiators of this magnificent love – He chose us! He chose us to bear fruit, not out of obligation, but from the overflowing joy of our union with Him. Theologically, this is the stunning revelation of covenant love. It is not something we earn; it is a gift we receive, and it is enduring beyond measure. The bride now thrives from her identity, basking in confidence rather than drowning in insecurity.

Psychologically, secure attachment forms the very bedrock of a vibrant identity. When we truly know we are loved, our hearts overflow with love in return—not as a transaction, but as a beautiful reflection of that love. The soul that recognizes its belonging is liberated to give freely, unencumbered by fear. Neuroscience reveals that secure relationships forge a pathway to emotional stability and unwavering resilience. In the embrace of God’s love, our minds and hearts resonate with peace—banishing panic from our lives. We cease the relentless pursuit of love and instead, joyfully abide in it. This narrative unfolds not towards a conclusion, but towards an eternal beginning of love untainted by fear.

Journal Prompt:

• What has this season taught you about your identity in Christ?
• What does it mean to live from belonging?

Practical Steps and Application:

1. Speak the words of Songs 6:3 out loud and let the words sink deep into your spirit.
2. Identify one way your love has matured over these past few weeks.
3. Thank Gd for the trials that brought you into a deeper union with Him.

Deeper Introspection:

Read John 15:16

¹⁶ You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you.

John 15:16

Here are deep, introspective journal prompts for John 15:16, broken down by key phrases, along with related scriptural references and examples for a deeper reflection.

“You did not choose Me, but I chose you”

• Prompt: Reflect on the moments in your life when you felt a divine invitation or calling, rather than an effort of your own. How does the knowledge that you were chosen—even before you knew it—change the way you see your faith journey?
  • Scriptural Connection: Ephesians 1:4 states, “even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world.” 1 John 4:19 reminds us, “We love because he first loved us.”
  • Example: Consider a time you felt direction in your life, such as a career path or a decision to serve others. Journal about how this sense of purpose was initiated by God, rather than being a result of your own striving.
• Prompt: How does the security of being “chosen” by God free you from the need to earn your worth or acceptance? What fears or insecurities do you still carry, and how can the truth of this verse address them?
  • Scriptural Connection: In Romans 8:38-39, Paul reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of God.
  • Example: If you often feel the pressure to perform perfectly or worry about failing, write about how the reassurance of God’s prior choice can alleviate that pressure. Focus on accepting your identity as a chosen and beloved child of God.

“and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit”

• Prompt: What does “fruit” look like in your life right now? Be specific. Consider the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control) as well as the fruit of good works.
  • Scriptural Connection: Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit. Ephesians 2:10 says we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works.”
  • Example: Make a list of recent actions or attitudes that reflect the fruit of the Spirit. For instance, “I showed patience with my co-worker today” or “I experienced a deep sense of joy when serving at my church.”
• Prompt: In what areas of your life do you feel you are not “bearing fruit”? How can you surrender these areas to God and ask for His guidance and strength to cultivate growth?
  • Scriptural Connection: John 15:5 emphasizes that we can do nothing apart from Christ.
  • Example: If you struggle with a particular habit or attitude, write about your frustration and then commit that area to God in prayer, asking Him to help you bear good fruit instead.

“and that your fruit should remain”

• Prompt: What is the difference between temporary achievements and eternal, lasting fruit? How does understanding this distinction affect your daily priorities and motivations?
  • Scriptural Connection: 1 Corinthians 3:13-14 speaks of works being tested by fire, with only those that are lasting remaining.
  • Example: Contrast a career achievement that will fade with a spiritual act of kindness that has a lasting impact. Write about how prioritizing the eternal over the temporary changes your approach to work, relationships, and even your thoughts.
• Prompt: Consider a past action or season of your life where you believe you bore good fruit. How have you seen the lingering effects of that fruit in your life or the lives of others?
  • Scriptural Connection: Psalm 126:5-6 talks about those who sow in tears reaping with joy.
  • Example: Recall a time you mentored someone or extended grace to a difficult person. Journal about how that experience influenced you and, if you know, how it impacted the other person for the better.

“so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give you”

• Prompt: How is bearing fruit connected to effective prayer? Do you find yourself praying differently when you are living a life of obedience and actively bearing fruit?
  • Scriptural Connection: John 15:7 promises that when we abide in Jesus and His words abide in us, we can ask for whatever we desire.
  • Example: Compare a time when you prayed out of anxiety or self-interest versus a time when you prayed with the peace that comes from a life aligned with God. Reflect on how your focus shifts from personal gain to God’s will.
• Prompt: What does it mean to pray “in Jesus’ name”? It’s more than just a phrase at the end of a prayer. How can you ensure your prayers are aligned with His character and will?
  • Scriptural Connection: 1 John 5:14 says that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
  • Example: Take a current prayer request and examine it. Is this request in line with Jesus’ teachings? Rewrite the prayer to better align it with His will and character, committing to a prayer life that seeks His kingdom first.

---

© Kimberlee Smith 2026 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.