I saw a vine on a big tree branch the other day. It was not just sitting on top of the branch; it was completely entwined around it, so much so that you could barely see the branch. I thought to myself, how horrible that must be for that branch! It's going to die! And it's true, that the branch will probably die if the vine is not cut off; but then it occurred to me, that's what's supposed to happen in the spiritual realm.
Jesus says that "He is the Vine, and we are the branches" (John 15:1-8). That means that we are supposed to die to ourselves and live for Him. It also means that He will not just be near us, but that He will encircle us, entwine us, completely surround us with His presence if we let Him.
But here's another thing about branches: they must be pruned. No plant will bring forth beautiful fruit if it is just left to run wild. Nor will we. I've been really struggling with the devastation that happened in Rome, Alabama, and other areas from the storm on Wednesday. So God is gently reminding me that He is the Vine, and we are the branches. He knows what's best for us - even when it doesn't seem like it. Even when it hurts. I pray that He will help me remember that in the coming days and weeks.
Jesus says that "He is the Vine, and we are the branches" (John 15:1-8). That means that we are supposed to die to ourselves and live for Him. It also means that He will not just be near us, but that He will encircle us, entwine us, completely surround us with His presence if we let Him.
But here's another thing about branches: they must be pruned. No plant will bring forth beautiful fruit if it is just left to run wild. Nor will we. I've been really struggling with the devastation that happened in Rome, Alabama, and other areas from the storm on Wednesday. So God is gently reminding me that He is the Vine, and we are the branches. He knows what's best for us - even when it doesn't seem like it. Even when it hurts. I pray that He will help me remember that in the coming days and weeks.
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