Pruned for Rest

The Foundation of Fruitfulness

Our purpose as followers of Jesus is clear: to glorify God and bear fruit. In John 15:1-8, Jesus emphasizes that abiding in Him, the true vine, is the only way to produce the kind of fruit that brings glory to God. This fruit is not a measure of greatness but a natural outcome of our connection to Christ. Imagine a branch—detached from the vine, it cannot thrive. Similarly, we are called to root ourselves deeply in Christ, drawing strength and nourishment from Him. This is where our journey begins: by resting in His presence and allowing His life to flow through us.

The Painful Beauty of Pruning

Growth, however, comes with a cost. Jesus teaches that even the most fruitful branches are pruned to become more productive. Pruning is not punishment but preparation. It can feel like loss—shedding habits, priorities, or even relationships that once seemed essential. Yet, just as a grapevine needs careful trimming to bear a healthy crop, our lives require intentional refinement. This process, though painful, strengthens us to carry the weight of spiritual fruit. Each cut aligns us closer to God’s purpose, shaping us into vibrant disciples capable of bearing much fruit.

Abiding Through Rest

Abiding is not a passive act but a deliberate rhythm of rest and work. It means carving out time to dwell in God’s Word, to pray, and to be still. In a world that demands constant productivity, abiding challenges us to slow down and prioritize our spiritual health. Rest is not the absence of activity; it’s the presence of intentionality. Whether through fasting, community worship, or personal reflection, abiding fosters a deeper connection with Christ. This rhythm isn’t about extremes but about finding balance—a life marked by both fruitful work and restorative rest.

The Call to Community and Commitment

We cannot navigate the pruning and abiding process alone. Community is essential. Wise counsel, small groups, and accountability partners help us discern God’s work in our lives. Together, we sharpen each other and spur one another toward good works. As we commit to this journey, we grow not only as individuals but as a collective body of believers, reflecting God’s glory in the world. By remaining in Christ and supporting one another, we fulfill our calling to make disciples who bear fruit.

The path to spiritual growth is not always easy, but it is profoundly rewarding. Through abiding and pruning, we are prepared for the work God has set before us. We must rest in His presence, embrace His refining hand, and step boldly into a life that glorifies Him.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director