In what ways can we ensure our lives are fruitful for God's kingdom? Setting the Scene “Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Ezekiel 15:1). Those few words launch a brief but pointed parable. The LORD compares Israel to a vine—useful only when it bears fruit. Without fruit, the wood is too soft for tools and too crooked for building; it ends up as kindling. That image presses us to ask how we, unlike that barren vine, can remain useful and fruitful for God’s kingdom. Why Fruit Matters • God expects fruit: “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit” (John 15:8). • Fruit authenticates faith: “Every good tree bears good fruit” (Matthew 7:17). • Fruit blesses others and multiplies witness: “Let your light shine…that they may see your good works and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16). What Counts as Fruit? • Christlike character—the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). • Obedient deeds prepared by God (Ephesians 2:10). • Words that build up and point to Christ (Colossians 4:6). • Generosity and service that meet real needs (Philippians 4:17; Titus 3:14). • Disciples reproduced (Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Timothy 2:2). Staying Connected to the True Vine (John 15:4-5 provides the antidote to Ezekiel 15’s warning.) • Abide daily in Christ through the Word. – Consistent, prayerful Scripture intake roots us (Psalm 1:2-3). • Cultivate unbroken communion. – Speak with Him throughout the day (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Submit to pruning. – Welcome the Father’s loving discipline that increases yield (John 15:2; Hebrews 12:11). Practical Habits That Encourage Fruitfulness • Set aside unhurried time for Bible reading and meditation. • Memorize key passages; rehearse them when tempted or weary. • Plug into a local church where gifts can be exercised (1 Peter 4:10). • Seek accountability; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). • Serve intentionally—find a need and meet it in Jesus’ name. • Share the gospel regularly; fruit often follows sowing (Mark 4:14). Guardrails Against Barren Branch Living • Reject complacency—“Be doers of the word” (James 1:22). • Watch for subtle idols; they sap spiritual sap (Ezekiel 14:3). • Confess sin quickly; unconfessed sin chokes growth (Psalm 32:3-5). • Keep an eternal perspective; temporal worries wither fruit (Mark 4:18-19). Encouragement for the Journey God never abandons a branch that abides. “He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it” (Philippians 1:6). Stay attached to the True Vine, welcome His pruning, and your life will tell a different story from the barren wood of Ezekiel 15—one of lasting, kingdom-advancing fruit. |
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