I’m not sure if this verse is true, I thought at first. After all, I had accomplished things in life long before I had trusted in Christ. Yet Jesus was clear: “You can do nothing without Me.” Those are hard words. In fact, there are many coaches who don’t believe in Christ, and they have been able to help players become better players and people. Many of them are coaches at prominent schools; they have great jobs, an abundance of material possessions, a terrific athletic program, and championship trophies. So what did Jesus mean when he said we can do nothing apart from him?

In order to grasp Jesus’ meaning, we must think about this verse in context with what else He said during this
conversation with His disciples. “I chose you,” He said. “I appointed you that you should go out and produce fruit,
and that your fruit should remain” (Jn 15:16). Jesus was talking about matters of eternal significance. So what really
lasts? Do houses or cars or trophies? I have yet to find someone who knows where their grandfather’s trophies
are. So what really lasts? The gospel lasts, and the joys of life in God’s kingdom. Anyone living apart from that is
missing out on lasting treasure.

Is your coaching bearing fruit that will last? Are you modeling a life changed by Christ? Do you look for opportunities to tell others about the greatest story ever told? If not, it’s not too late. The first step is to evaluate if you are “remaining in Him.” We stay connected through the ongoing reading of His Word, prayer, church attendance, fellowship with other believers, and witnessing about our faith to others. As we abide in Him, the more we will be used by Him to bear everlasting fruit.