"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1 & 2 ESV).
I've found this to be so true when cutting back and pruning my mulberry trees; true in nature, true spiritually. Sometimes there's lots to do, leaving the 'tree' rather barren looking. But sprigs of new growth can spring and sprout up with refreshing greenness, bringing more mulberries.
It's necessary to be aware of what branches are being 'taken away' and which are being 'pruned'. Is it the fruit of lying or angry tongues and so on that need taming and taken away or, once pruned, is there the fruit of righteousness and of the Holy Spirit bringing forth gracious and pleasant words? Is there any other behavior that needs attention?
Let's examine ourselves to see what needs to be "taken away" and where "pruning" can bring forth more abundant fruit. The process may be painful and humbling but may the Lord work in our hearts and minds for His glory and honor. Let's let Him do His work while we do ours in following His lead. We are children of God and so we need to become more like Jesus in this aspect and so practice speaking wonderful words of life while we prune out that which does not give Him glory and honor.
"So be it, Lord."
Amen.
~ ERC April 2025 ~
Based on John 15:1 & 2 ESV and loosely on 30 Days to Taming YOUR Tongue by Debrorah SMith Pegues.
Sing, Wonderful Words of Life, along with The Joslin Grove Choral.
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