Whenever a branch is trimmed off a live tree it usually withers because it is no longer connected to its source of nutrients. The branch is never meant to be independent of the tree. Branches are expected to bear fruits, but they cannot perform this function if they are separated from the tree. In order words, without the tree, the branches cannot bear fruits.

You may be doing a righteous work in the house of God without heart perfection or holiness. But without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Although Asa could not remove the high places which was part of his assignment, he worked with a perfect heart. God is more concerned about the life or walk of his children than their work. In summary, life is better than ministry.

There are many Christians whose hope are not beyond this life, for they serve not the Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly. Such people whose hope in Christ ends here on earth should be pitied, because they are of all men most miserable. Their suffering in hell will be worse than those who did not believe in Christ, namely Atheists, Muslims, Buddhists, etc. Irrespective of what they are doing for the Lord, they are wasting their time.

The primary reason why many believers are not cheerful is because of doubt and unbelief. What a contradiction! By manifesting an attitude of unbelief, we are inadvertently calling God a liar. But God cannot lie; His words must surely come to pass, therefore let us rejoice and be glad in Him always. Beloved, be fully persuaded that, what the Lord has promised, He is also able to perform. 

Compared to eternity, long life on earth is very brief, so let us learn to number our days, that we may know how to live. It will not be long before your pilgrimage on earth comes to an end. Where is your great grandfather? If he's still around, then surely his father is no more. And one day it will be your turn to expire. This world is not your home; you are here on a journey that will eventually come to an end someday.