Just listened to this message on youtube by Bro. Blume - a very encouraging and insightful message about the disciple's relationship with the Lord, and comparing Christians to being preserved as trees. He teaches the connection of how we must bear fruit of Life to be preserved, or be cut down and lost forever. I would highly recommend taking the time to listen to it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKx6EmK6JqA