“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 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 15:1-2 ESV
prune verb… to cut off or cut back parts of for better shape or more fruitful growth…
–Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (11th Ed.)
Pruning…
The word has come to mind more than once recently…
Wondering if pruning… is part of living free this year… considering recent occurrences in ministries He’s called me to…
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…
Where am I in this verse…? a fruit-bearing branch…? if so… what is it like to be pruned…?
I think of pruning bushes in the yard with loppers…
One quick cut… a whole branch is gone…
Not all branches lopped off are dead… some are still alive… but with chosen branches gone there’s more room for growth… a better shape…
Does He quickly cut off branches of ministry…? without warning…?
I wonder… because what was once constantly on my heart to do regularly for years… is now just gone…
His faithful pressing and reminders… not present…
A work gone undone… but no conviction… no regret in the forgetting…
Is this pruning…? freeing me from one ministry… alive but not growing…? to make more room for one which is…?
Or have I just become negligent…?
Hmm…
Wondering what steps to take next… how to explain to others… and if there’s reshaping to do…
Seeking His guidance… longing to obey…
Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Psalm 25:4 NIV
Jeremiah's Menu 
Your words today remind me of our crepe myrtles in our backyard at the old house. I loved them! I was a little sad when they were pruned each year but how beautiful they were when they bloomed. I looked forward to that beauty every year.
I love you like I loved those crepe myrtles. So look forward to the beautiful things you will do, and the wonderful words you use, to spread the word of God to others even if it is something (i have a thought of what it may be) that has to be pruned to spur the growth.
No need to be anxious about explaining why. Praying God will give you peace and guide you in the direction HE has planned for you.
Will be back in touch soon,
Many hugs and prayers my Christian sister,
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