May 24, 2022 -- Matthew 7:18-20 -- Fruitful for Jesus

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Matthew 7:19-20 ESV

When you walk through an orchard, the beautifully coloured and shaped fruit hanging on the tree is so attractive. Think of how attractive an orchard of peach trees is, there in late July, as the fragrance of the fruit pleases the nostrils and the yellow-orange hues of the skin are so please the eye.

This is likely one reason our Lord spoke of good fruit in His description of Christians. Christ-followers, who are dedicated to serving God in all their life, are very appealing, compelling to non-Christians. Someone who sees the fruitful life of the Christian is intrigued and admires what God has produced in the life of the believer; such a life is pleasing.

There is a story about D.L. Moody, the famous American evangelist of the later 1800’s, of his response to someone who disapproved of his style of evangelism. Moody was very direct.

A man approached Moody and said "I don't like you method of evangelism."
Moody countered and said, “What’s yours?”
The man replied, “I don’t have one.”
Moody replied, “Then I like mine better.”

As you read the Word, pray, and live for God, what is the evidence of your good fruit? Is your life flavorful in in obedience to God in such a way that others are drawn to God? Are you prepared to speak your faith so many will believe?

Father of Jesus,
the God of my salvation and the delight of my soul,
You Who rejoice over me in love.
I commend my heart to Your watchful care,
for I know its treachery and power;
Guard its every portal from the wily enemy,
Give me quick discernment of his deadly arts,
Help me to recognize his bold disguise as an angel of life,
and bid him be gone.
May my words and works allure others to the
   highest walk of faith and love!
May loiterers be quickened to greater diligence
   by my example!
May worldlings be won to delight in acquaintance with Thee!
Help me to walk as Jesus walked,
   my only Saviour and perfect Model,
   His mind my inward guest,
   His meekness my covering garb.
Amen.
(a portion of the prayer "CHRISTLIKENESS" from The Valley of Vision: Puritan Prayers and Devotions.)

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