On Being Pruned
I find it incredibly painful to be pruned. To work so hard in my faith, to grow and produce fruit that will please my Father, only to experience something that knocks me off my feet. I have to think that's what Jesus meant in John 15:1-2. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, so that it will be even more fruitful." As a follower of Jesus, my King of Kings, I continually strive to remain close to Him in all things. And, of course, I fail miserably because I'm still a sinful and willfully disobedient child. But for the most part I attempt to live my life in a way that is pleasing to God, and will somehow further His kingdom. Many times, during trials in my life, I find myself asking God why this is happening to me. What have I done to deserve this? Haven't I been good and faithful? (I promise, this is th...