I'm Being Pruned... are you?

The word today for me?

John 15:1-2, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 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.” (NIV)

In the past the part of this that I focused on was "he cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit" but today, the second part hit me.

The parts of me that bear fruit still need pruning. I've actually been experiencing this lately but didn't label it like this.

Bless the Lord.

I decided to look at a few things online about pruning and wanted to leave this with you... I'm sure it can apply to the spiritual. Enjoy:

"Pruning is a double-edged sword, either helping or hurting according to if, where, when, how, and why it is applied. When properly executed, a variety of benefits can occur. Benefits include reducing risk of branch and stem breakage, better clearance for vehicles and pedestrians, improved health and appearance, enhanced view, and increased flowering. When improperly performed, pruning can harm the tree's health, stability, and appearance and make matters worse.

There are several consequences of not conducting a regular pruning program. These include:

1. increased risk of branch and stem failure
2. development of low aggressive limbs
3. formation of co-dominant stems
4. defects such as included bark and dead branches
5. obstructed views"

Hmmm... any applications?