Fruit!

Fruit!

‭John 15:2 AMP‬

[2] Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that continues to bear fruit, He [repeatedly] prunes, so that it will bear more fruit [even richer and finer fruit].

My location defines my allocation. My location also defines the expectation. It will not be one-way traffic, where I only get what I want. I have to also know what the demand is from me, and strive to fulfil it. From the verse above, there is an expectation from a branch that has found itself in the vine. I note that the verse above says: 'Every branch IN me'. It is not just any branch; it is that one that is found in and with the vine. The vine supplies all that the branch needs in order to be fruitful. The branch is not expected to go looking for nourishment and sustenance all by itself, but as long as it remains connected to the vine, it is guaranteed a supply of all that it needs. 

This is why it will be strange that the same branch that is connected to the vine, and getting all that it needs to thrive and bear fruit is then found to be bearing no fruit. It will be a strange sight, but it is also a warning to all that just being connected to the vine is the first step; I must allow the supply of the vine to lead to fruit. There are processes I must be subject to, if the supply will lead to fruit. There is no magic wand to wave to command fruit; it comes from total submission to the supply of the vine. This means I must not get too comfortable with just salvation; my new faith must lead to fruit. I cannot afford to relax and rest; being in the vine demands a work and a walk that reflects my position. 

Of course, there are consequences for not living up to the expectations from the supply. The One who takes care of the vineyard is watching. He will not immediately take away the branch that bears no fruit, but it will give it time. This is also both a warning as well as an admonition: I do not have forever to live up to the expectations of God for my life. He will keep working on me, if I surrender to His process, but He will not force Himself on me. If I allow Him work, He will bring out the best in me. He wants me to keep bearing good fruit, because that is the visible proof of His invisible work in my life. The pruning will be painful, but it is wisdom to allow the vineyard owner to do His best work, so I can be the best at representing Him. God's time of favour is here.