Continuing His parting words to His friends, Jesus explains that the way to stay connected to God is by following His example. He also warns that they will be hated and misunderstood.
Pruning is the process of cutting limbs from a plant to keep it healthy and productive. If there are branches that are not producing any fruit, they will be cut o completely. As we follow Jesus, we also require pruning in order to grow and change.
Love is a fruit. Patience, kindness, gentleness, joy, faithfulness, goodness and self-control are all fruits (Galatians 5:22–23). These characteristics are evident in people who are connected to Jesus, the vine. What others see is a re ection of what’s going on inside of us. As a follower of Jesus, others should see fruit in your life. If you are not seeing fruit in your life, maybe it’s time to connect with Jesus. Get connected to the source that will give you abundant life and produce that fruit in you.
If you are in a season of pruning, it is because you are connecting to Jesus. You are growing, you are changing and He is making you into something more beautiful, something richer and better than what you already are. Jesus is not content with letting you stay the way you are—He wants more for you. He wants the absolute best for your life! 1 Peter 5:7 says,
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” He cares for you and although the process may be painful and uncomfortable, He is not okay with letting you stay where you are when something more beautiful is waiting. Jesus will perfect you because He is concerned for you.
• What can you learn about Jesus from this chapter?
• Is there evidence of fruit in your life?
• What are some practical ways to stay connected and growing in a relationship with Jesus?