Pruning For More Fruit

 John 15:2 KJV

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

We started a gardening class with the kids a few months ago. We have about thirteen tomato plants. One of the first things our gardening teacher taught us is that, if there is a leaf that is diseased or dried up, quickly take cut it off. Otherwise, the plant will put its energy into trying to revive the dried leaves instead of putting its energy into growing tomatoes - the fruit.

In the bible, we are the ones that are supposed to be bearing fruit. The Father is supposed to purge us of the things that are keeping us from bearing as much fruit as we can. Are we willing? What are the things in our lives that are keeping us from bearing fruit?

Personally, I can see God coming at me with the scissors.

Too much time on Facebook. Chop.

Lazing around watching Youtube. Snip. Snip.

Being quick to anger. Snip. . . That one keeps growing back.

I can be hesitant. Complacent. Forgetting that I am made for a purpose. And not for my comfort or convenience. But to bear fruit. 

Yes, I should definitely have rest and recreation. But a lot of the things the Father is trying to prune from me have not been rest and recreation in the first place - maybe pause and procrastination. He wants better for me. And I should too.