Our Heavenly Pruner – by CD Swanson
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1)
When Jesus spoke to His disciples in the upper room, He explained in metaphorical illustrations relationships and roles and how they connect. He is the Vine, and the sustenance for our growth. He is the “life-line” in which we breathe. He illustrated with love and patience that which He intended for their role to be…and the Spiritual connection in which they/we are tied.
As the fruit comes forth due to growth in His Spirit, we begin to process things differently. We see and think in His mind-set, we want to be at favor with God, and in so doing…we grow. And, ostensibly we bear fruits of the Spirit.
The Father prunes our branches which essentially will replenish to bring forth more fruit. Jesus warns us about the “tares” and reminds us many times, that “you will know them by their fruits.” Jesus’ words ring true as we look around in the news and see the proliferation of evil. Look at some of the headlines as of late, and you’ll be staring into the face of evil, and consequently, “rotten fruit.” The Lord prunes our branches because it’s necessary for growth. We cannot bear fruit without Jesus. We need Him to bring about change and growth. So, He is the “Pruner” as well as our Vine. He has to prune in order for us to be productive for His purpose.
We should look forward to His pruning shears, and His corrections. Just as a child needs discipline from their earthly father, so too do we need it from our heavenly Father.
Ask yourself this: “Is your fruit pleasing to the Father?”
Find more of CD Swanson’s articles and books HERE. | 
