BEARING FRUIT

Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. -Matthew 7:15-16

You know plants, trees and people by the “fruit” they bear. You expect to get the “fruit” that tomato, pepper, radish… plants produce. So also you pick certain “fruits” from apple, orange, peach… trees. It is expected. It is true of people as well. The fruits of their life can be seen. A doctor, baker, seamstress… are known by the “fruits” of what they do. The “fruits” of a person’s character and personality is also seen as it is projected outwardly.

According to the verses above a false prophet can also be seen “by their fruit.” What is their own life like, what are they teaching and how is that impacting people? Do they truly love the Lord and really desire to be a servant of His? Are they teaching the Word of God and applying His Word first to their own life? Is their transformation taking place in their own life as they follow the Lord Jesus?

Yes, leaders can be known by their “fruit.” This can also apply to leaders outside the church. Those that appear to be speaking the truth, but are living contrary to that truth are people be beware of— whether in the church or outside the church, the body of Christ.

What type of “fruit” are you and I bearing? It truly shows who we are. May we bear “fruit” that honors the Lord Jesus Christ. Yes, may this be so.

Dear Father, may I yield to the Holy Spirit and bear fruit that He produces. Oh, that I would be a faithful, fruitful follower for You in the authority of Jesus and by the Holy Spirit’s power.