Grace-filled, love-driven "vine-dressing" can feel brutal to newer followers of Christ. (I still find it earth-shattering and I've been following Jesus, badly, for 40 years." Yet, I believe everything I said yesterday. Look with me again at our main passage;
John 15:1–3 (ESV)
15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you."
The Father moves us through seasons with the intention of fruitfulness for His glory and our good. Each season has that soul purpose, produce. Dormant seasons? Growing? Maturing? Pruning seasons (the most brutal at times but most important)? It is all about bearing good fruit. Being a good mentor/ disciple-maker means guiding our loved ones into recognizing, focusing on, and being thankful for the season the Vinedresser has us in.
What season are your people in? Be sure to take them as individuals. No one grows at the same pace as others- no one is in the same place as others. Practice patience.
Strike while the spiritual iron is hot and seed is on the ground. Here are some guiding questions and discussion starters for those we disciple;
- What stood out to you from yesterday's message? (what is Jesus asking you to do...)
- What season do you think the Vinedresser has you in?
- What should you be focusing on today?
- Is there anything that is limiting Light/ fruitfulness?
- Where are you busy but not productive?
- How can I help you grow/ pray for you while in this season?
Have some coffee, make a phonecall. Come alongside your people and help them love the season that they are in. Fruit is on the way!
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