John 15:2
Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit.
PRAYER
Lord God, Almighty Father, you are the divine gardener and in your hands I am safe. Show me the areas that need pruning in my life so I can make room for you to produce a harvest of good fruit.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Additional Devotions
John 15:2 is the perfect example of less is more. Why? Because it teaches us about God’s divine process for growth by way of pruning. Pruning prepares us for growth by making room for a more excellent harvest of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Life somehow keeps surprising me. Every time I turn around these days I’m faced with another opportunity to stretch and grow, be it relationally, spiritually, emotionally, or physically. And if I’m honest, I’m not always happy about it.
How about you? Do you see the principle of pruning as punitive or purposeful?
Admittedly, this process can be quite uncomfortable. But it is also very purposeful. And although my initial reaction is to resist change, I am learning the principle of divine dividends when it comes to pruning.
This week we are exploring how to make room to grow. What area’s in your life continue to hinder or distract you from producing a harvest of good fruit? These are often areas of dysfunction, disease, or uselessness.
Perhaps it’s a relationship. This can be a tough ask. Some relationships feel like a necessary appendage—to cut them off would leave us utterly devastated and less than whole. Yet, as painful as it may seem, we can trust God is growing us for a good purpose.
How about your time? Time is a costly investment that either returns a positive or negative dividend—a profit or a loss. Take an honest look at how you are spending your time. Managing your time from a spiritual perspective will often free up space for more of the things God has for you.
Maybe you are emotionally shackled by feelings of unforgiveness, bitterness, pride, or insecurity. These emotional prisons are not of God. Removing them will free you to be a healthier and a more excellent version of yourself.
Honestly, the list is endless. There are many possible areas of pruning. And if done by the merciful hands of God, will yield divine dividends of growth that have the potential to affect generations to come.
Ask God to reveal one area that needs pruning. The end result will always produce growth and a harvest of good fruit.
Hugs for a great week and remember, you are not alone. Be blessed, be brave, and let the pruning begin!