Producing More Fruits

He prunes it that it may bear more fruit.

1) The Goal: Producing Fruit

The branches of the vine must be pruned regularly or they will grow out of control and become entangled with other things which hinder the production of fruit. The branches must be constantly watched and cared for. The cutting or cleansing here that Jesus is talking about is the pruning or cutting back of the branches (John 15:1-11).

If there is no pruning, the branches can get so large and heavy that they are no longer productive. As Christians we can easily become comfortable and unconcerned about the production of any fruit, but God remains concerned.

2) The Process of Pruning

Pruning is an absolutely necessary step in order for more fruits to be harvested. Pruning serves several purposes:

* Removes diseased or dead branches.

* Ensures greater production.

* Eliminates wild growth.

Pruning is different than discipline. Pruning takes those who are abiding in Christ and makes them more productive by some significant difficulty or life challenge. Discipline, however, takes those not abiding in Christ through hard times so that they will repent and return to the Lord.

God our Father prunes us when necessary. But we can avoid some trials by self-examination. Self-examination is that spiritual discipline by which we carefully examine what we are doing in our lives and taking initiative to make changes so that we can more effectively grow and bear fruit.

Application: If my grape branches pruned themselves, then I would not need to do any pruning! How can we work along with the Lord to improve things? Honestly answer the following questions.

* What might be draining your precious time and energy from what you are suppose to be doing?

* How might you ensure a more steady walk with the Lord?

* How can you better shield yourself from worldly temptations?

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