John 15 is a very important and is rich with application. Look at John 15:1-2, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” The word “true” means just that – real, true, genuine. Jesus is the true vine because He is God the Son, the only One through which anyone can receive eternal life. As His children we are the vine sprout or the branch. Since we are His children with the ability to bear lots of fruit, He will prune us. Pruning means to cut away what is unwanted or superfluous – ouch! God will prune all of us, as we’re serious for Him.
There will be times of great disappointments, losses, challenges within relationships with friends and family members. There may even be tragedies with people we really care about along with financial hassles and difficulties with our studies. We may get some very hard things thrown at us. Pruning is not fun.
If we can see things from God’s eyes, as we walk closely with Him, He does have a purpose even when we can’t see it. God does prune us so that we are even more fruitful for Him.
Never give up on God during these hard times. Don’t turn your back on Him. Some of your best years of service, joy, blessings may be just ahead if we hang on to him.
Pruning is part of God’s plan for us even if we can’t see it right now. Be encouraged! God is for you and has your best interest in mind long term. Pruning from God is a hidden blessing.
Ben Rivera