“Every branch in me that doesn’t bear fruit, he takes up. Every branch that bears fruit, he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”
When a vine isn’t bearing fruit as well as it should, a good gardener will clear out the excess foliage to allow the plant to receive sunlight. This pruning process helps the plant fulfill its purpose. When this process happens in our lives it is never comfortable. It means something is being cut away—something you may have grown attached to, something that once was good.
Jesus makes it clear: the Father prunes even the branches that are bearing fruit. Why? Not to harm them, but so they can bear more fruit.
In our lives, pruning can look like closed doors, shifting relationships, changing assignments, or letting go of familiar patterns. At first, it may feel like a disappointment or a loss—but in God’s hands, it’s preparation.
The Gardener knows what you cannot see: which branches are draining life, which areas are holding you back, and where new growth needs space to emerge. Placing your life in God’s hands allows for changes He knows are best for you. Pruning is not rejection—it’s intentional care from the One committed to your flourishing.
Centering Prayer
Father,
I trust You as the Gardener of my life.
Even when pruning feels like loss, help me believe it’s for my growth and fruitfulness. Amen.
Practice for Today
Reflect on a recent change, loss, or ending in your life.
Ask God to show you how He might be using it to prepare you for greater fruit.
Journaling Prompt
What in my life might God be pruning right now?
How can I respond with trust instead of resistance?
Closing Blessing
Welcome the Gardener’s hand.
Place your life in His tender care.
Let Him remove what no longer serves your growth.
Stand rooted in His love, and watch new life emerge in season.
Pray as You Go
Breathe in: Shape me to do Your will…
Breathe out: …that I may grow in You.