A tree can bear good fruit or bad fruit. Likewise, bearing good fruit is evidence of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Godly fruit is long-lasting and it flourishes.
Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:17-18).
We can produce good fruit no matter what season of life we are in. However, obedience to God, our attitudes, as well as our approach to each situation determines the condition any fruit we bear. God calls us to be fruitful; to get positive results and to make a positive impact, all for his glory.
It is all too easy for us to get wrapped up in just being “busy”, all-the-while thinking that we are being fruitful, simply because there are tons of things written on our daily schedules. Yet, being busy and being fruitful are two totally different things. Busyness often distracts, taking our eyes off of God’s plans for us. Although the enemy finds it ideal, a distracted Christian becomes ineffective! God would rather have us focused on being fruitful than us be focused on adding more things to our to-do lists.
Having solid roots in Him enables us to have fruitful lives. So, when we make Jesus the center, everything else in our lives automatically becomes balanced. If we are pleasing God by the things we spend our time doing, we are then made fruitful by Him. Also, when we accomplish His purpose for which he created us, we are fruitful. Being fruitful leads to us feeling fulfilled.
Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. (Colossians 1:10 NLT)
Being fruitful requires us to be obedient to God while seeking Him for directives. Ultimately, it is wise to follow all directions the Lord gives over our own plans to ensure that we bear good fruit.
Overall, busyness tends to make us feel tired, stressed, and maybe even a little irritated. On the other hand, fruitfulness empowers us, restores energy, and leaves us feeling grateful.
Additional Verses for Further Study:
“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. ” (James 3:17 NLT)
“You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.” (John 15:16 NLT)
Prayer Starter:
“Lord, show me how to gain the proper balance in my life. I choose to put you at the center of my life, and I aim to bear good, long-lasting fruit. I want to walk in the purpose for which you created me, so that I can have a fruitful and fulfilled life.”
Wishing you all a great week!
