By Nati de Kock
This is the second article in the series and it is continued from Nati’s Story: In Every Season.
‘Every branch that does not bear fruit He takes away (cut off).’
Chronos Time
Definition of Chronos; it refers to minutes and seconds, that is, to chronological or sequential time. It refers to time as a measurable resource.
Natural tendency of the vine is to grow downwards. It gathers dust and moulds on the leaves and branches. As a result it becomes less fruitful. It is like when you work and work but there is no Fruit. This is what sin does to us.
However, the good news is to ‘cut off’ means ‘aero’ in Greek. Aero is similar to air or to lift up. This is what the Father does to us. So this is grace time or tender time, but if we persist God will discipline us. How do we know he discipline us?
Well, do you Feel Frustrated, when you can’t hear His voice, restless, uncertain, can’t read or understand the Word? The things the Father test are our attitudes, our thoughts, our habits, and our obedience. He speaks to us through people, nature, His word, even a movie etc.
So if you feel frustrated then ask God what has to change. Remember; you determine how long this season will last!
Kairos Moment
Definition of Kairos; Kairos (καιρός) is an ancient Greek word meaning the right or opportune moment (the supreme moment). Kairos means an appointed time, an opportune moment, or a due season.
The Father need to get us ready for the new season. This is the season of pruning. The branches that Bear Fruit he prunes to bear more fruit. This is the time we are prepared for a new season. This is the time He cuts away all the dead wood. This is the time He makes room for sunlight and for new shoots to grow.
For example a lobster sheds its Shell every year. Lobsters grow by molting, or shedding their shells. Before they shed the old shell, they will form a thin one underneath. When molting, they secrete enzymes that soften the shell and connective joints. Lobsters will then struggle out of their old shell while simultaneously absorbing water which expands their body size. It is a painful process. After shedding off the shell it will be vulnerable to predators. It’s uncomfortable and unsafe.
A bee also goes through a similar process. Once the larva has turned into a new bee, young larvae eat their way through the royal jelly in a circular pattern until they become crowded, then they stretch out lengthwise in the cell. It’s painful but part of the growth process.
(This series will continue next time in part two as Season of Pruning)
About Nati de Kock
Nati de Kock is the widow of the late pastor Tertius, who was a senior pastor of Hatfield Christian Church, Pretoria. Together they fought battles with cancer twice. She is a qualified teacher and has travel around the world in several countries including Russia.
