4Ds to Pruning

     While watching a video on pruning crape myrtles, the instructor said to remember the 4Ds to pruning.  They are: diseased, decayed, damaged, dead.  Those are the limbs that need to be cut off.
     I believe the “4D Rule” could apply to everyone's life as well.
     If we harbor resentment and hate, our hearts will become diseased.  If we look at the lives of others and dwell on their accomplishments and possessions rather than being thankful for our own blessings, we are allowing jealousy to decay our outlook on life and remove our joy.  When we allow deceit, falsehood, envy, drugs, and addictions to invade our hearts and bodies we become damaged.  When we ignore God, His Word, and His ways we become dead in heart, soul, and mind.
     In Luke 11, Jesus told those who ridiculed Him “Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed.   A family splintered by feuding will fall apart….Anyone who isn't with me opposes me, and who isn’t working with me will fall apart.”
     In my opinion, diseased, damaged, decayed, and dead limbs, whether within our nation or within the individual body, will get sick and die; they work against God.  They need to be pruned to allow growth and unity in the right direction; God's direction.