July 7: The Tree Was Never The Problem

The Tree Was Never the Problem

Sharon Campbell-Danvers 
Educator and Motivational Speaker

Key Text: "Every branch in me that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit" (John 15:2, KJV).

Years ago, I planted a cherry tree. It grew beautifully and reached full maturity, but there was one problem - every season the cherries were filled with worms.

I tried everything I knew to do. I gave the tree more water, but that did not help. I trimmed back the branches, hoping it would make a difference, but year after year the same problem remained.

Eventually, I made up my mind to cut down the tree. I thought perhaps I should remove it and plant another tree in its place.

One day, while talking about the matter, someone suggested that I spray the tree because it might have a fungus or disease causing the issue. I decided to try one last time.

To my surprise, the tree produced a bountiful harvest of beautiful cherries. We ate cherries to our heart's desire!

God taught me a powerful lesson through that tree.

How many times do we want to give up on ourselves, our families, our ministries, or our dreams because we keep seeing the same problems? We think the answer is to cut it down, walk away, or start over. Yet sometimes the issue is not that the tree is bad; it simply needs the right treatment.

Jesus said:

"Every branch in me that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit" (John 15:2, KJV).

God does not always remove us when we are struggling. Instead, He prunes us, heals us, and treats the hidden issues that are affecting our fruit.

The worms in my cherries were only the visible symptom. The real problem was deeper.

Likewise, the struggles we see in our lives may be symptoms of wounds, unforgiveness, fear, disappointment, or areas that need God's healing touch. If we allow Him to work on the root of the problem, He can restore what seemed beyond repair.

I almost cut down a tree that only needed treatment.

How many things have we been ready to give up on that God is still working on?

Do not give up too quickly. The same tree that once produced worm-filled fruit became a source of abundance and joy.

God specializes in restoration. He can take what seems unfruitful and make it fruitful again.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me not to give up too quickly on the things You have planted in my life. Help me to trust Your process of pruning, healing, and restoration. Reveal the hidden areas that need Your touch, and produce in me fruit that brings glory to You. Teach me to be patient with myself and with others, knowing that what seems hopeless today can become fruitful tomorrow through Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.