Scripture tells us that a tree is known by its fruit, such as in Luke 6 it says, “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit” (Luke 6:43-44 NKJV). We all enjoy good fruit, it tastes better, it looks better, and all around its just simply better. Likewise, we have all experienced bad fruit, In some cases it may stink, may be visually unappealing, may even be rotten, and have an awful taste. Jesus gives us a great example here of His comparison with good fruit and godly living.
Paul goes on to also use fruit in an effort to teach us about the work of the spirit and godly living. In Galatians 5 Paul says, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).
What kind of fruit are you producing?
Paul’s list of fruit (fruits of the Spirit) are a great guide to see how you’re doing in your walk with Jesus. Paul reminds us in verse 16 that we are to walk in the Spirit so we don’t fulfill the lust of the flesh, in the following scriptures he also provides a list of the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). This is a pretty diverse and broad list. However, the eye-opening part is found at the end of verse 21 saying, “as I told you in time past, that those who practice such things will NOT inherit the kingdom of God” (NKJV).
It is critical that in our walk with Christ that we surrender ourselves and allow the Spirit to work in us. Galatians 2 gives us a great example that we should live by (this verse is one of by absolute favorites) Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:19-20 NKJV).
As you pray today, ask God to work in your heart and to produce good and wholesome spiritual fruit.
Blessings,
Pastor Jonathan W. Pannell
Rev. Jonathan W. Pannell III 