There is a grand declaration in verse 8. Sometimes we ask ourselves what we could do to show our love to the Lord. The answer to that is found in John 14:15, 21, and 23: to keep His word. In the same way, here the Lord is telling us what glorifies the Father and the demonstration that we are His disciples. It is bearing much fruit; not only some fruit, but much fruit—big clusters of grapes. Bearing fruit is all natural and effortless for a branch since it is the vine’s life in it that produces it—it is not the branch itself. And so it is with us. Not only are we unable to produce such fruit, but we can also hinder its growth.

Now, what is this much desirable fruit that is pleasing to God and for His glory? It is the very person of the Lord Jesus! Was He not perfectly bearing the excellent fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–23)? As we bear the same fruit, we not only emulate Christ, thus being His disciples, but we also show forth the beauties and perfect character of His Person through us. And this perfect fruit glorifies the Father, and He looks for much of it in our lives.

Let us notice that this is not about works, or gifts, or capacities, or opportunities of service. No, it is something that all of us can do equally. It is letting the life of Christ flow freely through us, by the Holy Spirit, so that it is expressed and manifested in much fruit.

But are there not obstacles in us to hinder this blessed fruit-bearing? Yes, and this is why we also have the ultimate resource: prayer. Just in case we missed the point about asking whatever we desire, the Lord gave a hint about what to pray for. The context is so clear! Let us ask, then, to bear much fruit. Here is a prayer guaranteed to always be immediately answered by “Yes.” Let us start this day by asking this very thing: that Christ be seen in us, abundantly, for the Father’s glory.