15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 Every branch in me that does not produce fruit he removes, and he prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit. (John 15:1-2 CSB)

I do not have a green thumb. Mine is more steel gray. I am good with metal but not with plants. However, I do understand the concept of pruning. Taking away old growth so that new growth may replace it making the plant stronger and able to produce more.

We are much the same. When God prunes away the old growth and helps us grow in the Spirit, the new growth can be stronger.

Thus, we go through seasons of pruning and growth much like a plant. Be this the process of maturing or the process of spiritual growth. We replace bad or childish habits with more mature ones. Hopefully, ever improving.

However the pruning process may be painful. But only in clearing away the old can the new growth thrive.