The ‘pruning process’

By:Jesse T Gambanga

Yesterday was me having some vigil prayers with my aunt.We do them every night but last night felt so different in that she mentioned something I wasn’t aware of since my Christian walk.She told me of how it was important for me to allow God to do some “Pruning Process ”in my life.
At first I didn’t understand what the “Pruning process” was all about and I really wanted to know.
So she mentioned that the pruning process was a transformational process in which I had to allow my creator to have His way in me, removing all toxic things that inhibits my growth.It was a catalyst for my growth!She also told me that it was not an easy process and was going to probably involve some heartbreaking experience, disappointments and frustrations but it was really worth it.
Then I was like, Wait…I am not ready for the pruning process, I mean I wasn’t gonna be ready to take the risk of experiencing pain.I have had enough heartbreaks, I have cried enough tears and I have faced enough discomfort!
Then she simply smiled and said, “Then you are not ready for transformation Jey”
So I still prayed to God, told Him of how much I was afraid of the pruning process despite me wanting to grow.I asked Him if He could find a way of making me skip such a hard process but still transform my life but as I said that silent prayer, a scripture I used to recite when I was a little girl came to mind…
John 15 vs 1-2
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”

For the first time in my life I began to slowly understand what the scripture meant and I am glad it came to mind at the right time.

God loves His children and whatever He does, whether it might appear tough, He does it out of love.
There are certain areas in your life where you need growth and transformation just like a tree.
No tree can grow well unless it is pruned.
To prune, according to Collins Dictionary is to remove dead or living parts from (a plant) so as to increase fruit or flower production or improve the form
The practice entails targeted removal of diseased, damaged, dead, non-productive, structurally unsound, or otherwise unwanted tissue from crop and landscape plants.

Although the process can be harsh, it is for the good of the plant so that it sprouts and bears more fruit.
Same applies to you.
Pruning is not a punishment! It is somehow a reward.
If you allow God to prune you, it means you must be willing to lose a part of you.
Bad habits, toxic people, negative thoughts, unhealthy relationships are all part of the things we inhabit in our lives which, as long as we carry, will not foster any growth in us!
At times we may be reluctant to lose that part and that reluctance alone is the reason why the pruning process can be so hurtful.
But one thing I love about the pruning process is that it will always leave us stronger.The process may seem harmful but it is preparing us for a much desired transformation.
It’s hard to let go of toxic people even though all they bring is negative energy and bad vibes.Dettachment is never easy but you have to be willing if you desire change
So as I am writing this this message, i have decided to allow God to do the pruning process in my life.I need Him to touch every area of my life which requires growth, be it my spirituality,my personal relationships or my character…I am ready.
Though it might hurt a lot, I am certain now that it will come to pass and it is all for my good, for the word of God says in Romans 8:28 (KJV):

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”