“‘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. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me, he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned… By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you… You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” John 15:1-6,8-14,16
God the Vinedresser is in the business of taking away, and every branch will experience His righteous cutting in some way. Bear no fruit, and be removed from the Vine Jesus forever; bear fruit, and succumb to His pruning. He works for healthy, flourishing branches who bear abundant fruit in His kingdom and world, and graciously removes everything that hinders holy growth.
In the realm of spiritual agriculture, it’s vital to be assured we are attached to the Vine. Have we by faith been joined to Christ Jesus, our only hope of salvation? Do we acknowledge and rely on Him as the Source of redemption and eternal life?
If we are indeed by grace a branch of His vine, what identifies us as His stock? How well, how consistently, are we abiding, and with what results? Fruit is evidenced by growth of godly character, effectiveness of ministry, and joy within and expressed. Obedience to God’s commands always brings blessing personally and communally as we interact with others and serve God’s people.
Where specifically do we need His careful tending? Have we grown crusty with thorns, hard hearts toward the ones He’s called us to love? Where has stubbornness or selfishness inhibited the free flow of His Spirit through our veins? What specifically will we ask the Lord to remove from mind or practice, or willingly allow His tender, keen care to cut away, that will promote growth and flourishing? How willing are we to lay down our plans, preferences, the need to be right and have the final say for the sake of another?
My Vinedresser, have Your way with me so my countenance and actions prove me a faithful, joy-filled disciple.
As the rain and snow 