Day 15: "Bear Some Fruit"

“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.” John 15:5

Fruit is not limited to soul winning. In this chapter of John, answered prayer, joy and love are all mentioned as fruit. In the following verses in Galatians fruit is also mentioned.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control; against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified him there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Sprit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.” Galatians 5:22-25

To be effective Christians we must bear fruit. We need to remain in Christ if we are to allow Him to work through us. In order to remain in Him we must (1) believe that He is God’s son (I John 4:15); (2) receive Him as our Savior and Lord (John 1:12); (3) do what God says (1 John 3:24); (4) continue to believe the Good News; and (5) relate in love to the community of believers, Christ’s body (John 15:12).

Each of us has our own story to tell. Some of us have had struggles along the way and perhaps had some times when we have had troubles. It is during those struggles that we need to exhibit our faithfulness to Him for others to observe.

If we live by our spiritual nature, then our lives need to conform to our spiritual nature. That is the expectation Christ has for us. We are to claim Him and live our lives showing others through our fruit – kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control – that we are Christ-followers.

Much can be said about fruit. Most fruit grows in warm or hot climates. In the same way, Christians bear more spiritual fruit if they have a warm relationship with Jesus.

Fruit is nutritious and builds healthy bodies. Just as natural fruit produces healthy bodies, so the fruit of the Spirit creates a pleasant atmosphere and brings happy results. The body of Christ, the church, is stronger because of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.

Fruit grows on trees, bushes, and vines. Not all fruit-bearing plants look alike, nor do they bear identical fruit. Each of us is special. We bear the fruit of the Spirit according to our individual relationships to the Lord. The "product" is the same – beautiful and joyful.

Fruit trees and vines should be pruned regularly to produce the best fruit. The Word of God trims the excesses from our lives so that we can produce quality fruit. It is important that we each pray and read His Word regularly to receive guidance.

In what area of your life are you having the most trouble “remaining in Him?”

Which fruit will help you to bear witness in the coming week? Ask for God’s help in winning the battle so that you can be successful.

~Marcia Tivoli