Since the start of the year, I’ve been writing articles in a sequential order. While each article can be read independently, I recommend spending some time on the previous articles. For today, let’s focus on Are you letting God prune you? based on John 15:2.
Collin’s Dictionary describes pruning this way: When you prune a tree or bush, you cut off some of the branches so that it will grow better the next year.
John 15:1-2 NIV says: “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 so that it will be even more fruitful.“
In order to properly grow, as a Christian, you should let God prune you. This means cutting off parts that aren’t growing properly, so they can grow better. Since you & I are unique, the part I need pruning in, may not be the same for you. That’s why, what God may be helping and teaching me on may not apply to you.
At the start of 2020, the Holy Spirit led me on a Music cleanse. Honestly, it didn’t make any sense to me at that time. The facial expressions I’d get when I mentioned I didn’t listen to certain songs was loud. However, I stuck to the instruction I got and I’m certainly better for it, 3 years later.
How does God prune you?
The honest answer is it depends. Depending on the state you’re in, the Holy Spirit could lead you into different things. One thing I can testify of is this: Regular pruning keeps you healthy & fruitful.
When does God prune? A tree is never pruned in its’ fruiting season. Usually, the Father would prune you while that part is dormant.
Something that is dormant is not active or growing but has the ability to be active at a later time. (Source: Cambridge Dictionary)
Considering the pruning season, I’m reminded of Isaiah 40:31 NKJV:
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.
When the eagle soars, it has no weights pulling it down. It’s flying free. Think of pruning as you shedding unnecessary weights so you can mount up like this eagle.
While the Father knows exactly where you need pruning, I’d like to provide you with a few questions which will help you ponder:
- Is there anything not growing in my life?
- What am I tolerating that’s pushing me from God?
- Are the people (my close circle) I associate with enabling my walk with God?
- Do the songs I listen to help my walk with God?
- What about the places you visit?
Read Previous Post: Are you intentional about your walk with God? | Photo by Irina Iriser on Pexels.com
Thank you for reading – Funmi
8 Responses
Thank you Funmi for this amazing blog. I learnt a lot.
I’m happy you did. Thank you for stopping by 😁
The questions you gave at the end concerning pruning are very convicting. I appreciate this so much!
Thank you for your comment Patty! I’m glad it spoke to you.
Thank you, Funmi. I also thought the questions were very good. God bless you, today!
Thank you for stopping by Cindy! I love that the questions resonated with you. Amen! God bless you too
This reminds me a lot of Hebrews 12 where the Christians are asked to lay aside every weight and sin that so easily trips them, and about how we need God’s help to do that, and we also need to self-examine and take necessary steps. Your post is really encouraging me to take the time and reflect and ask the hard questions. Great post Funmi!!
I hope you do take the time to reflect. Thank you Seyi!