When Grace Delays the Axe
6 And he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none.
7 And he said to the vinedresser, ‘Look, for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down. Why should it use up the ground?’
8 And he answered him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure.
9 Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’”
— Luke 13:6–9 (ESV)
Devotional Thought:
Jesus told the parable of a fig tree that had every advantage—planted in a vineyard, cared for, and given time. But despite three years of opportunity, it remained fruitless. The owner’s verdict was clear: "Cut it down." But the vinedresser—symbolic of Christ—intercedes. "Give it one more year. Let me work the soil. Let me fertilize it. Let me try again."
This parable is both merciful and sobering. It shows us that God is extraordinarily patient, but not indifferent. He’s looking for fruit—evidence that the seed of His Word has taken root. Grace does not mean there is no deadline. It means there is still time… for now.
The fig tree represents believers who have received truth, been planted in the right environment, and still remain unchanged. And in these last days, Jesus is not returning for trees with only leaves—He’s looking for fruit that remains.
Today, the question isn’t: Have I heard the Word?
The real question is: Has the Word changed me?
Prayer Focus:
Pray that God would open your eyes to any area of fruitlessness in your life.
Ask the Holy Spirit to dig around your heart—to break up any hardness, indifference, or spiritual apathy.
Thank God for His mercy—but don’t waste the delay. Respond while there’s still time.
Pray for those in your church or family who have had much opportunity but little fruit—intercede for one more season of breakthrough and repentance.
Reflection Question:
What would the fruit inspector find if He came to my tree today?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your mercy that delays judgment and gives space for repentance. I do not want to waste this season. Search my heart. Dig around the areas that have grown dry or self-reliant. Pour out Your Spirit and awaken fruit in me again—fruit that brings You glory. I yield to Your hand. I embrace the digging. Make me fruitful in this hour. In Jesus’ name, amen.
