The most discouraged & frustrated Christian is the one who longs for growth but is resistant to change. We expect God to add, but not take away. We expect God to multiply, but never divide. We forget that Jesus taught that life-pruning precedes spiritual produce. God is removing some things, people and activities from your life to make room for growth you have not yet experienced. Stand still while the Pruner completes His work. You won’t regret it.
“…and every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” – John 15:2
Posted in Spiritual Growth
Dad once cautioned me on undue loyalty. At the time he was referring to a particular job I had, asking me to consider whether I might be keeping a commitment to the detriment of my family. Given that he was loyal, having only two employers in his own life, this held weight with me.
Having spent years fleeing responsibility, I discovered it very difficult to resign that position. I was trying to be tough….and the end result was painful.
Determining whether I am fleeing or God is pruning remains a difficult task to this day. I know that some of my deepest growth in Christ comes when I acknowledge that where ever I go, there am I. I don’t want to flee friendships just to encounter the intended lesson with another friend. It’s a strange sort of stubborn.
Yet I know that I am also guilty of “expecting God to add, not take away”. I am currently taking both the entitlement and stubbornness to God about a particular friendship. Presently, my prayer is only, “God, your will be done.”
You hit me between the eyes brother. Oh so true.