Topic: John 15:2 [John Hagee Devotional 6 December 2019]

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Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit

Today’s verse sounds quite ominous to the “branch” that is not bearing fruit. However, when we examine it in the original text, a beautiful picture emerges.

Instead of “take away,” the Greek word “airo” can be translated “lift up.” John the Baptist exclaimed, “Behold! The Lamb of God Who takes away (airo) the sin of the world!” Jesus took away our sins and “lifted” them to the Father. Jesus said, “And I, if I be lifted up (airo) from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.”

In a vineyard, grapevines grow upwards along a trellis, so the clusters of fruit hang freely. If branches grow along the ground, the fruit splits or grows moldy. They are never intended to exist there.

We cannot flourish where we were never intended to live. If we are connected to old behaviors or old ways of thinking, our ability to produce good fruit is severely limited. We cannot grow in the dark.

Our tender Vinekeeper will come to “lift up” the branch that has fallen in the dirt. He will “take away” the dead foliage, prune it for optimum growth. He will wash it with the water of the Word to make it clean. With gentle hands, He will do everything He can to ensure that we produce much good fruit.

Blessing:

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Thank God for His tender mercies and compassionate care. May this be a day of new beginnings.

Today’s Bible Reading: 

Old Testament 

Hosea 4:1-5:15

New Testament 

2 John 1:1-13

Psalms & Proverbs 

Psalm 125:1-5

Proverbs 29:9-11