Isaiah 1:21-31-3:1-4:6
Isaiah 5:1-30
Isaiah 5:1-2,7, “I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside. He dug it up and cleared it of stones, and planted it with the choicest vines. He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well. Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit. … The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah are the vines He delighted in. And He looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.”
When you purchase plants, they often come with specific care instructions. Succulents are not to be overwatered. Flowering plants such as lantana and hibiscus need lots of water and full sun. With a watchful eye and the proper touch, a great caretaker can use their “green thumb” to produce a beautiful garden. Their faces light up when they describe the care they’ve poured into their plants!
Our Heavenly Father is like a living tree that brings every person who believes into His vine. As a believer, He delights in YOU. Just as a gardener knows the best time to plant, water, and how much sun is needed, He knows exactly what You need and is always faithful to provide.
Examine the fruit of your life, and allow God to prune lovingly. Trust His skilled hands. Then as good fruits like peace, justice, and righteousness spring up in you, picture Him smiling down on you with joy and pride.
Lord, Your love is a mystery to me. That You delight in me is beyond my comprehension, but I am so grateful for Your tender care! Prune me as needed to bring good fruit from my life! Amen.