God’s Pruning Knife

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2

A wise gardener snips off stray growth and nonessential tendrils from his fruit trees. Such useless twigs impede development and consume vital nutrients that should be flowing directly to the fruit-producing stems.

Is there anything on your branch blocking a full bloom? A prideful attitude, ungracious speech, laziness, jealousy - anytime a sin crops up, the work of the Holy Spirit through you can be hindered for a time and the growth of good fruit stunted.

Right now, if you are struggling with a baffling circumstance or a trial is causing pain or anxiety, look again at the situation. Maybe your loving Gardener is using His pruning knife to tell you something, moving you to a place of productive growth.

Of course, not every trial is the result of God pruning you to remove a sinful habit. Trials can have other maturing purposes, and sometimes He prunes when you don’t have a particular sin problem. Pruning does not necessarily indicate His discipline, but it is always an expression of His love.

Examine your heart and ask the Lord to reveal any potential trouble areas and respond to His leading. No matter what the reason for His tender trimming, you can be sure that healthy fruit will follow.