“Abiding.”
John 15:1-4 (NIV)
15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
When I read about pruning it reminds me of a time when my grandfather would send us to his coffee farm to help him prune the coffee bushes. In preparation, would sharpen the pruning saw and the pruning shears and head to the farm.
My grandfather understood the seasons and knew exactly when it was time to prune. It was not easy. We cut off branches that would fall, wither and later burnt as wood fuel.
Much like plants when we are being pruned, the cutting and trimming hurts as God removes things from our lives that cause us to be unproductive. After pruning the remaining branches would blossom, flower and after a short time we would reap a harvest which brought great joy to my grandfather. God prunes us so that we can bring forth the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5.22). God knows the exact time to apply his tools to prune his chosen ones.
As Gods children, we should remain in God’s plan for our lives. Only then can we be fruitful. Jesus Christ calls us to Love; love God and love others. We are to seek peace “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” Colossians 3:15. We are called to forgive one another. Is God pruning you?
Reflection
What areas of your life require pruning?
What steps can you take to help you and others, your Church, your community, your meeting to learn to abide in Christ?
Action step.
Make a decision to abide as you are pruned for fruitfulness
Prayer
Father, today I choose to remain in You and follow Your leading in everything I do. Help me to open my heart to be humble, to love, and to forgive others and bring glory to you in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Edgar Ala
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