In ancient times, olive trees were considered sacred. Today, they still symbolize peace, abundance, and endurance. The olive branch even waves proudly on national flags and the flag of the United Nations.

Olive trees are native to the Mediterranean and can live for thousands of years. Yet their strength and longevity come with a process. An olive tree does not produce fruit right away—it takes about fifteen years to mature. And during those years, something must happen again and again: pruning.

The farmer steps in with his shears, cutting back branches so the sunlight can reach deep into the tree’s tangled growth. It may seem harsh, but the farmer knows the tree cannot thrive without it. The whole purpose of pruning is fruitfulness.

John reminds us in his Gospel: “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.” We, too, experience this pruning. It stings. It confuses. But without it, the light of God could not reach into our most hidden, complicated places.

Pruning is not punishment—it is preparation. God is not careless with His shears; every cut has intention. He knows what is needed for you to flourish. You are like an olive tree, carrying healing and nourishment for the people around you.

And so you wait. Just as the olive farmer watches season after season, trusting his careful work will bring fruit, so God patiently tends you. In time, the branches heavy with olives tell the story: pruning was never the end—it was always the beginning of abundance.

Darci J. Steiner is the author of the award-winning biblically-based book Beauty Beyond the Thorns: Discovering Gifts in Suffering. She began writing as a way to process her pain after becoming disabled. Darci writes to encourage others always to hold on to hope. Darci is an author, inspirational speaker, and nutritionist. She loves spending time with her husband, two adult daughters, and baby granddaughter. Please visit www.darcijsteiner.com to learn about her books and speaking details.

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