28 January 2024

GOD’S PRUNING FOR MORE FRUITFULNESS

(Going Forward in Christ: GFIC 5)

The Lord Jesus is the True Vine and we believers are the branches (John 15:5). When we abide in Him, we will bear much fruit. He also warns us that when we do not bear fruit, the Father will cut off the branch: "I am the True Vine, and My Father is the Gardener. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit and is thrown into the fire and burned” (John 15:1, 6). This is the fruit of holiness and Christlikeness. Let us take serious heed of this warning. The Bible also warns us that “Without holiness no one shall see the Lord” (Heb.12:14).

On the other hand, Christ says that the branch that bears fruit will be pruned by the Father, so that it may bear more fruit: “while every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful”. (John 15:2). Pruning is for the good of the branch because the goal is to enable it to become more fruitful.

Spiritual pruning is the discipline of the Lord in dealing with the hindrances in our life. Because He loves us, the Father prunes us for our good. The Writer to the Hebrews makes this very clear: "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son." (12:5-6).

Some good Christians, while undergoing trials sometimes asked in desperation, “If God loves me, why am I undergoing such terrible experiences and circumstances?” The above text should be an encouragement to us, and give us the assurance that God still loves us and has not forsaken us. Great saints like Joseph and Job were severely tried and tested by the LORD; and in the end they were richly rewarded because of their faith and endurance

The purpose of God’s discipline is also mentioned: “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? ...God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in His Holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Heb.12:7, 10-11).

Notice that “God disciplines us for our good”, which means it is for our benefit, although it may be painful initially. This is our spiritual training so that we may produce a “harvest of righteousness and peace”. Righteousness is the state of being right with God in our relationship, which results in holiness. God wants us to be holy because He is holy (1 Peter 1:16). The next result is “peace” – peace with God and peace of heart.

The word “harvest” is used to refer to “righteousness and peace”. This means “abundance” or “plentiful”, suggesting that we will walk in the fulness of righteousness and peace in our life with God. This will bring assurance and satisfaction, resulting in fruitfulness which will Glorify God (John 15:8). Praise the Lord! 

Click HERE to return to Article Listing