By Their Fruit You Will Know Them

On last week we began a discussion that addresses our fruitfulness.  As we continue this discussion over the ensuing weeks, I want to preface those future discussions with these thoughts about fruit. 

Some fruit is underdeveloped, which is a sure sign it has not received sufficient nourishment.  Being void of the word of God causes us to live lives barren of the power of the Holy Spirit, thereby extinguishing our spiritual lights to the world.  Jesus called this sad condition “losing your saltiness.”

Other fruit finds itself dying on the vine for lack of exposure to the “son.”  We only look like Jesus when we purpose to do so.  Failing to walk with ”intentional purpose” will create an intense likeness to the world, but not to the savior, therefore your fruit will be rendered useless. 

Still others are lying on the ground “bruised” from the fall from the tree;  many struggle from bruising from previous lives in the world.  This lasting bruising comes from failure to accept the saving grace of the cross and the declaration by the word of God that we are new creations.  We must learn to leave the old baggage in the past and embrace our new identity in Christ.  When we successfully do this, then are walking in the power of the cross.

Lastly, is the fruit that gets over-nourished to the extent that it is inedible. This is a sullen reminder that we must be careful in our development, because Satan can enter us with pride and render us useless in caring about the fate of the lost. 

As you can see, being fed properly, with sufficient access to the “son” and a healthy awareness of the blessing of grace in our lives balances us in a way that produce in us the heart of Jesus.  So as you can see, there are many states in which our fruit can exist, but only one makes us useable to our God.  So give this thought, and let it guide your evaluation of your fruit.  Healthy fruit is not only edible, but it praises the source, and the tree is loved by its owner for the fruit it produces.  Unfortunately, trees who produce poor fruit are ultimately cut down and thrown into the fire.  God is counting on your to bear fruit that speaks of his grace and mercy.  I pray your fruit is glorifying our heavenly father. Blessings.

~Lamar