We all know the sting of regret. It comes in many forms—sadness, disappointment over something said or done, a choice made, or a missed opportunity. Regret can leave us with remorse, sorrow, even heartache. And if left unchecked, it often grows into bitterness, resentment, guilt, shame, or blame. What begins as a moment of failure becomes a roadblock that drags behind us like a weight, making it hard to move forward.

Jesus calls Himself the true vine. A vine grows from the root, sending life through every branch. To remain connected to Him is to receive that life, to bear fruit that lasts. Maximum fruitfulness requires pruning, and pruning is painful. But pain in His hands always leads to greater productivity. Dead wood only weakens and harms the vine.

We do not fear the Lord for what we “get” in return, but for the privilege of what He has already given—His very presence and, through Jesus, His resurrection life.

Nothing is quite as painful for a parent as watching a child struggle. How many times have we said—or heard someone say—“I just want my child to be happy”?