Day 29

“I am the True Vine, and My Father is the Vinedresser. Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly … (verse 2b – 3)

– John 15:1-3

In our lives there are periods of growth and periods of waiting. During these periods of growth, it is very easy to trust God that everything is going to work out because we are experiencing the changes happening in our lives. On the other hand, the periods of waiting can be very difficult and can cause us to question our purpose, because we think we aren’t making any forward progress. The appearance of inactivity in our lives, while knowing we are meant for more, can be hard to deal with. However, the waiting periods we face only appear to be inactive slumps.  In reality, God is constantly doing a work in us; He is working on our behalf even when we don’t feel capable to do so.

John 15:1-3 says that we are cleansed and repeatedly pruned through God’s Word given to us, so that we continue to bear fruit and to make our fruit richer and more excellent. This means that, during the time we spend with the Lord, we are being perfected and prepped for our periods of growth.  Just like a plant, the pruning process is meant to remove those things that are dormant and dying in our lives to make way for the fresh, new growth and development in our spiritual walks and everyday lives. The waiting periods you experience can feel purposeless, but know that God is preparing you for continued growth in Him and for new development and success in ways you can’t begin to imagine.

Stay Strong and Carry On,

Carrington