John Reading GuideSample

Dead branches don’t produce fruit. Dead branches don’t require pruning, they are cut off completely. Pruning is not only for branches, but also for people who are alive and producing fruit, seeking Jesus, connecting to Him, following Him, growing and changing.

Love is a fruit. Patience, kindness, gentleness, joy, faithfulness, good- ness and self-control are all fruits (Galatians 5:22-23). These characteristics are evident in people who are connected to Jesus, the vine. What others see is a reflection of what’s going on inside of us. As a follower of Jesus, others should see fruit in your life. If you are not seeing fruit in your life, maybe it’s time to connect with Jesus. Get connected to the source that will give you abundant life and produce that fruit in you.

If you are in a season of pruning, it is because you are connecting to Jesus. You are growing, you are changing and He is making you into something more beautiful, something richer and better than what you already are. Jesus is not content letting you stay the way you are—He wants more for you. He wants the absolute best for your life! 1 Peter 5:7 says, “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” He cares for you and although the process may be painful and uncomfortable, He is not okay with letting you stay where you are when He knows there is something more beautiful waiting. He will perfect you because He is concerned for you.

1) What did you learn about Jesus from this chapter?
2) Is there evidence of fruit in your life?
3) What are some practical ways to stay connected and growing in a relationship with Jesus?