Jesus: My friends, when I say, I am the vine, ye are the branches (John 15:5), I am teaching you about your need to remain connected to Me, for without Me, you can do nothing. But there is something important to understand about the pruning process. The Father, who is the husbandman, will prune every branch that bears fruit, so it can bear even more fruit.
Peter: Lord, I understand pruning when it comes to plants, but what does it mean when we, as branches, are pruned?
Jesus: Peter, pruning represents the challenges, trials, and corrections that come into your life. It may seem painful at times, but it is the Father’s loving way of refining you, cutting away what hinders your growth. He removes what is not fruitful—habits, attitudes, or distractions—so that you may become more like Him, more fruitful in love, patience, and faith.
Andrew: So, even though it may be painful, it’s for our good? It strengthens us?
Jesus: Exactly, Andrew. Pruning may feel uncomfortable, but it is never meant to harm you. It is for your good, to make you more fruitful and to deepen your relationship with Me. Just as a vine becomes more productive after it is pruned, so will your life reflect My love more clearly when the distractions and sins are removed. The Father sees what needs to be pruned so that you can grow closer to Him and fulfill your purpose.
John: Lord, when we go through trials, it can be hard to see the purpose behind them. How can we trust during those times of pruning?
Jesus: John, it is in those moments that your faith must remain strong. Trust in the Father’s love and wisdom. Remember, every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit (John 15:2). When you remain in Me, even in difficult times, you will find strength and peace. You may not understand the pruning process at the moment, but in time, you will see the growth and the fruit it produces in your life.
Philip: Lord, does the pruning ever stop? Or is it something that happens throughout our lives?
Jesus: Philip, pruning is a continuous part of your journey with Me. The Father lovingly shapes and refines you throughout your life, drawing you closer to Him with each season. As long as you remain in Me, the vine, and are willing to bear fruit, the Father will prune what is necessary for your growth. But do not fear it, for it is a sign that you are alive in Me and bearing fruit for the kingdom. You are being made more like the person you were created to be.
