“Which perennial fruit has 16,000 varieties, its branches can spread out 50 feet, and it can survive for hundreds of years?” The YouTube gardener’s question piqued my curiosity. When I noticed he was walking under an arbor of purple clusters hanging from twisted branches, the answer was obvious.
The video reminded me of the John 15:5 illustration, “I am the Vine, you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him is the one who bears much fruit”. Since Jesus and his disciples were familiar with grape growing, I decided a study on this subject would bear fruit (excuse the pun J).
I learned that grape farmers recommend soaking the roots of new plants in water for three to four hours, before planting them in well-drained, nitrogen rich soil. This reminded me of the importance of soaking up God’s Word and being planted in a doctrinally pure church.[1] Harsh weather (and life’s struggles) may bend branches and cause emotional storms. But just as faith needs a firm, holy foundation, a hearty root is vital for a plant’s health.[2]
My research also revealed how proper grapevine pruning means cutting back a majority of branches each winter, so only short vines with two buds remain planted. This same video gardener demonstrated this by pruning 90% of all canes. He then took the cut branches away from the vineyard (or burned them) to prevent fungus growth contamination. Another responsibility for the grape-producing farmer is the necessity of periodic inspections for signs of disease.
If you drive past fields of grapes close to harvest time, you’ll probably see large nets draped over the rows of vines. These protect the crop from birds, bugs, and animals with a sweet tooth.
How does God protect the redeemed (that’s you and me!) from soul-stealing predators or faith-shrinking diseases? He thoroughly covers us with the devil-defeating armor of faith and salvation through his Word.[3]
Can you think of times your heavenly Father has trimmed back or cut out things in your life? Just as you might discipline a child to redirect the way their character is leaning, our Savior prunes us for our spiritual growth. He promises a “harvest of righteousness and peace” [4] for us though this training. Out of gratitude, for these blessings, how might we cooperate in his will for our daily life?
Our perfect Gardener answers, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you.” [5]
Are you a fruit producer for Jesus? Read these Scripture verses to find out:
John 15:1-9,16 Philippians 1:9-11 Hebrews 13:15
Luke 6:43-44 Matthew 7:15-20
WHAT DOES SELF-CARE HAVE TO DO WITH A CHRISTIAN WALK? ISN’T IT ADMIRABLE TO BE A WORKAHOLIC FOR GOD’s WORK? These are the kinds of questions that are addressed in the book, SELF-CARE:SELFISH OR SACRED? An Interactive guide to Myths and Misunderstandings. To find out more about the book, get invited to the book launch party or presale opportunities; contact me at graceitforward@outlook.com and susanlfink.com
Susan L. Fink Manitowoc, Wisconsin
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