Devotional
It has been established that God does not prune us because He is angry at us, He prunes us so that we can regain our spiritual vitality and bear more fruits (John 15:2). However, it’s often so hard to connect the dots between God’s love for us and the pain the people sometimes go through in life. But the ultimate truth of the matter is that God’s love is perfect and not wicked. It’s soothing and yet instructive. Any wonder, the Bible says in 1 John 4:18,
Key Scripture
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.1 John 4:18 ESV
Refreshing for the Day
So, dearly beloved, God does not prune us to discourage us; He prunes us so that we will learn to abide in Christ (John 15:5). Again, one thing is surely certain, no matter how painful God’s pruning may be, it’s more so gainful. God doesn’t prune who he doesn’t love. Remember, it is the true child of God who is chastened by the heavenly Father, and not the illegitimate child (Hebrews 12:7-8). Stay Refreshed!
Note This
God only prunes His Own.
Responsibility
So, dearly beloved, rejoice when God is pruning you, it’s for your good.
Pause in His presence
Prayer
O LORD, prune my life and make me Your Own, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
Carry this with you
Prophetic Word
As the Lord prunes you, may you be strengthened and comforted again in life, in the name of Jesus’ Amen!
Bible Texts
1 John 4:18, John 15:2-4, Hebrews 12:7-8