Today's Scripture Galatians 6:9
Every believer lives in one of two states. We are either being lifted up or we are being pruned. Why? Because God wants us to bear much fruit!
Our Vinedresser continually inspects the fruit that we produce. He is looking for love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When He cannot find evidence of those fruits, He pays special attention to those branches.
God begins with a tender touch to gain our attention – the pastor will speak a word, a song will quicken our heart, or a friend will share a gentle rebuke. If we fail to respond to His tenderness, He will take tougher measures.
He will begin to cut away all of the things that do not bring forth good fruit. He will pull out all the debris that we accumulate until we are forced to put our trust exclusively in Him. We will find that when He is the only One left, He is all that we need.
When He lifts us up, He does so with love. When He wields the pruning shears, He does so with great patience. No need to lose heart! We will reap a harvest of much fruit if we continue to trust in Him.
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. As you submit to the Lord’s pruning, rejoice that He is working all things to your good and for His glory. Take heart! Your harvest will be great!