“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” John 15:2 NIV
Stripped or Pruned?
All the fun stuff is being stripped away one event at a time. First Bible Study, church, a wedding, then the Women’s Retreat, and then the Mother’s Day tea, all canceled. Next came the Alaska Cruise and then the Shasta County Fair (not the fair! I’ve been working on items to enter all year long). It’s starting to rub my heart a little raw now. Patience is being tested and joy is getting a bit more difficult to hold on to. Are you feeling the same way?
As I was feeling disappointed about the losses, I walked by my dresser and saw all the photographs of past Mother’s Day Teas and instead of sadness I began to be thankful for all the blessings of the past. Could it be that this time of isolation is for me to recount my many blessings and treasure what is truly important? Maybe it is a pruning instead of a stripping.
Maybe God has pruned away the branches that are no longer bearing fruit and allowing new growth. I’ve been able to do Bible Studies that are what I need instead of what the general congregation needs during this time. I’ve prayed more, rested more and kept on top of things more.
There is much to be thankful for! All the lovely faces in those pictures on the bureau are still alive and healthy. Telephones, and Face Time help me keep in touch with those I love. I have food on the table and a roof over my head. There is a God that loves me and is ever present when I feel sad, angry or lonely. All that is important is still mine and as you look at your life, I hope that you will see that this is true for you too. Hang in there, ladies! This too shall pass and what an abundant crop we will possess when we can one day be together again!
Heavenly Father, thank You for the pruning season even though it hurts. I pray for those who are mourning losses—whatever those losses may be. May we look for the blessings that are still there and may they encourage us to presevere through the difficulties. In Jesus’ name, amen.
I love thinking about the ways that God is pruning and growing all of us individually in this time apart. I pray that He is making each of us stronger and filling us with renewed perspective and purpose. What a glorious day it will be to gather together again and share the stories of all that He has done for us. To God be the glory forever and ever!
Thank you for your honesty. I just wrote the same feelings in my journal recently: lately there has been less joy in my life. I feel like I have been mourning “life as we knew it.” Then I remind myself of all my blessings and what is to come in Heaven!!!
Awesome!
Thank you! I have been feeling exactly the same way!! Guess God has all of us in the palm of His hands and exactly where He needs us to be!! God’s Sweetest Blessings to you all!!