Devotional

In any vineyard, the role of the vinedresser is crucial. In John 15, God the Father takes on this role, and His work with us takes two primary forms: lifting and pruning. Sometimes, life's circumstances can cause us to fall into the dirt. We're still connected to the vine, but we've become soiled and unproductive. In these moments, the Father gently lifts us up, cleans us off, and repositions us for fruitfulness. This lifting process is an act of restoration and grace. But there's another aspect of the Father's work that might surprise us. He also prunes branches that are already bearing fruit. This pruning isn't punishment—it's preparation for greater fruitfulness. By removing what's unnecessary or unhealthy, He enables us to channel more of Christ's life through us. Pruning can be uncomfortable. It might involve the removal of things we enjoy or value. But the Father's pruning is always purposeful and loving. He doesn't cut away to harm us but to help us bear more fruit that brings glory to Him and joy to us.

Bible Verse

"Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit." - John 15:2

 

Reflection Question

What might God be pruning in your life right now, and how can you cooperate with His work instead of resisting it?

 

Quote "He doesn't cut on the ones that don't bear fruit. He cuts on the ones that bear fruit."

Prayer

Father God, thank You for Your careful attention to my spiritual growth. Help me to recognize both Your lifting and pruning in my life as expressions of Your love. Give me the courage to surrender to Your pruning process, trusting that You're preparing me for greater fruitfulness. Amen.