While it can be painful, pruning is a positive process. God has a purpose for everything He allows to come our way. Nothing comes by accident or "happenstance." And even though we may not understand the reasons behind our suffering, we can trust that God knows what's best.

Pruning can also be a very powerful process. You see, God always achieves His purposes in this world. We are given the choice whether or not we will cooperate in His work. The more we accept His working, the more it accomplishes, and the quicker it is over.

Lastly, pruning is productive. It is a necessary process in the production of the fruit of the Spirit. Pruning also contributes to the productivity of our lives and ministry. Generally, the more pruning we receive, the stronger our lives and ministries become. Don't believe me? See for yourself:

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. . . Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. - John 15:2,8

God isn't satisfied with our simply bearing fruit. He wants to see "more fruit" and "much fruit." The only way for that to happen is through pruning. Painful? Sometimes. Needful? Always.