“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 15:2 (ESV). The first time I saw a rose bush properly pruned it stunned me. I watched as a friend hacked away at a healthy-looking plant. By the time he was finished the pruned plant was a stick-like shadow of its former self; I thought it was ruined but I was wrong. As it turned out, it grew beautiful and productive later that spring, pruning had made it healthier and more dazzling than ever. The LORD is faithful to prune my life when it is necessary, and so He does again and again. While it is uncomfortable to face this process each time, springtime’s bounty always comes. Father, You are the Great and Mighty Gardener and I am the willing target of Your handiwork. I am thankful for the pruning You see fit and I welcome Your holy work in me.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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