Encouragement for the Branches

Every Christ-follower goes through a season of pruning; a time when God "reduces" us, prunes us back, thins our lives, and reminds us again that we are not what we do, we're someone He loves. Yet, so often, grief, disappointment, and disillusionment accompany us into this season. But they don't stay with us. Eventually, the sharp pruned edges stop hurting, and they actually heal. Our hearts start to beat again. Our souls start to thrive again. We begin to remember that any gift from God's hand pales in comparison to truly knowing His heart. If you're feeling reduced and cut back, don't panic; don't wonder about your worth (you're worth everything to Him). Remind your soul that God is with you here. He's doing a deep work in you. And soon you'll know wholeness and fruitfulness you never imagined possible. Rest in His care for now. He's got you.

John 15:1-2 (AMP) ~ 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 continues to bear fruit, He [repeatedly] prunes, so that it will bear more fruit [even richer and finer fruit].