I was led to read the scripture in John 15 recently that describes the fruit and branches. If we abide in him we bear much fruit. The part that stuck out to me was when Jesus says in the living translation that we are pruned by His commandments. In other words if we bear fruit it is because we have been pruned by yeilding to his commandments. If we do not bear His fruit, peace, holiness etc we have something that we are not willing to surrender. Thinking on this or meditating on this brings me to the conclusion that many times the struggle we have is because we have certain issues we will not bow to His commandments on. Usualy it is forgiveness or bitterness. I admit to that and realize it when I seem to get overly worked up about an offense. Another is something I strugge with in the home. I posted another aritcle today re video games. I have allowed it to do much damage and did not pay attention. Now I reap the difficulty and pain of making a stand. Carrying ones cros! s also means to not cave in so I am trying to do so without being overbearing. Takes a lot of wisdom to pull out of the traps we fall into.
God bless
frank