The Problem With DIY Pruning

Pruning is a common practice in horticulture to improve the health and fruit of trees and vines. Jesus used it as an example of remaining fruitful for God: “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit (John 15:2, NASB).” It’s a call for us to cut out the dead wood in our life. But the question is who is directing the pruning?

If we are not careful, we can become our own vinedresser and seek to remove branches only we perceive as unfruitful. Sometimes we become impatient in tasks God gives us and think they are unfruitful, that they are a waste of time, but sometimes God’s plan takes time to mature and bear fruit. Psalm 27:14 reminds us,  “Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.”

I think that’s why Jesus reminded us, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser (John 15:1).” We need to remain connected to Jesus in prayer and God’s word, letting Him identify the dead branches in our life that need to be removed. Throughout John 15:1-11 Jesus called us to abide in Him.

We must stay rooted in God and recall He is the vinedresser with a plan for our life. When we abide in His plan for our life, we learn to listen to Him and follow His lead. We let God identify the things in our life that need to be pruned. We find our hope in bearing fruit for the Kingdom of God according to His timing.

You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. – John 15:16, NASB