In what ways can we ensure our lives bear good fruit for God? The Vineyard Picture: God’s Expectation Isaiah 5:3: “And now, O dwellers of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge between Me and My vineyard.” • God invites His people to step into His shoes and assess the vineyard—our lives. • He planted, protected, and provided every advantage (Isaiah 5:1-2). Good fruit is the reasonable result. What “Good Fruit” Looks Like • Christ-like character—“the fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). • Obedient deeds that glorify God (Matthew 5:16; Colossians 1:10). • A life that reproduces disciples (Matthew 28:19-20; John 15:8). Root to Fruit: How to Ensure a Harvest That Pleases God 1. Abide in the True Vine • John 15:4-5—apart from Christ we can do nothing. • Stay in constant fellowship through prayer, worship, and reliance on His grace. 2. Saturate Your Heart with Scripture • Psalm 1:2-3—delight in the law of the LORD and you will be “like a tree planted by streams of water.” • Let the Word correct, guide, and nourish (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 3. Walk by the Spirit • Galatians 5:16—“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Moment-by-moment dependence replaces self-reliance. 4. Practice Quick Repentance • 1 John 1:9—confession keeps the sap flowing. • Pruning hurts (Hebrews 12:11) but removes what blocks fruitfulness. 5. Obey Promptly and Completely • John 14:23—love proves itself in obedience. • Small, hidden acts of faithfulness count. 6. Cultivate Fellowship • Hebrews 10:24-25—spur one another on to love and good deeds. • Accountability and encouragement help branches stay healthy. 7. Steward Gifts and Resources • 1 Peter 4:10—employ your gift “as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” • Time, talents, possessions—all tools for a larger harvest. 8. Witness Boldly • Acts 1:8—Spirit-empowered testimony multiplies fruit. • Share the gospel in word and deed; rely on God for results. Daily Fruit Inspection • Ask: Is love guiding my choices? Are the Spirit’s qualities increasing? • Invite God’s searchlight (Psalm 139:23-24). • Adjust quickly—prune what hinders, feed what helps. Encouragement for the Grower Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it.” Stay rooted, stay yielded, and trust the Master Gardener to bring a harvest that honors Him. |
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