Uncommen: SowSample

Pruning the Vine

Pruning eliminates dead and dying branches, creating a healthy space for fresh growth. Pruning also deters pests, animal infestation, and unhealthy growth. Vines and components will not survive independently and cannot be fruitful. Jesus warns us we will wither and be thrown away if we do not remain in him. We know we can do nothing without our Heavenly Father, much like our plants. Without nutrients, our plants can do nothing. Our fruitfulness presents evidence of genuine salvation. Unity in our relationship with Christ is necessary for our vine to remain healthy. We glorify God through the work of Jesus and the fruit-bearing of us as his disciples.

We cannot be “close enough” to find life through Jesus in our walk with Christ. Close enough only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades is a line my grandfather always shared. Much like tending to the garden, complacency separates us from the good life. While our fruit is evidence of salvation, attributed good works are not required. It is vital to remember that putting on an appearance of faith is not the same as a spiritual rebirth. Much like the plants that become separated, the withering will show.

External pruning is essential to internal growth. Internal growth becomes organic through the oscillating life-giving vine. Pruning is a fruit-producing activity in which continuous dependence on the ultimate creator of life is the essential condition of spiritual fruitfulness. Previously, we spoke of the importance of healthy roots. On the surface, plants can appear healthy. However, that condition can change instantly because of the state of the source. If the origins are unhealthy, everything withers. Therefore, it is imperative to reflect and prune our lives as Christians. There is a popular question that asks about the latest life-giving resource. However, more often than not, we must prune the life-sucking source. Pruning cuts the noise without adding more stress.

I do not wish to be cast into a fire as suggested. “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” (Matthew 7:19) We will be a fruitful vine for the glory of God with Jesus as the divine branch. Bitterness, deceit, and self-reliance drove by the world’s voice speaking into our lives daily. Social noise creates a fatigued soul. There is hope!

God will prune us in times of trial. Trials force us to look at idols and where our treasure lies. The human nature of our hearts becomes conditioned to see our circumstances as a trial. However, those circumstances often grow out of what flows out of the heart.

Questions and Challenge:

Have you ever noticed complacency creeping into your spiritual life? Work-life or personal life?

How do you check the conditions of your heart?

I challenge you to spend some time reflecting on areas in your life for some pruning.