John 15 Vine

Scripture

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.  He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will even be more fruitful.”

John 15:1-2

Observation

This is one of my favorite verses in the bible.  I love the analogy of bearing fruit.  The idea that we can contribute to this world is overwhelming.  If we remain true to God and get watered with His word then we can actually bear fruit.  How cool is it that we can actually do something good in this crazy world.  The catch is we can’t do it alone.  We have to remain in him.  I also like the idea that even after we bear our first fruits, which can sometimes be hard in itself, we are to continue bearing more fruit.  As He prunes us and makes us better we will produce more and more fruit.

 

Application

I will be confident that I can bear fruit and make a difference in my life and in this world.  I will remember that I can’t do it alone.  I must remain in God and be constantly open to his pruning.  I also must remember that the pruning never ends.  Til I breathe my last breathe God will continue His work in me.  The only one to slow it down is myself.

 

Prayer

Lord, thank you for giving me the ability to bear fruit in my life, and for making me part of Your story.  Thank you for Your Word and Your Holy Spirit who will keep pruning me until my last breathe.  Give me the courage to bear my fruit in this chaotic world.  Give me the discipline and patience to allow you to continue your work in me.  Amen.