Following JesusSample

Is your life bearing fruit?

The easiest way to tell two trees apart is by their fruit. Even if you know nothing about horticulture or gardening, you can tell an apple tree from an orange by the fruit they produce. 

The Bible says the same is true of us. When we’re following Jesus, our lives produce fruit that make it easy for someone to say, “That’s a Jesus follower.”

“He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely” (Galatians 5:22-23, MSG).

When we’re following Jesus, it shows in how we respond when we feel left out, what we’re texting, how we speak about our friends, and where we spend our time. 

We know we’re following Jesus because we start to carry ourselves like He did. Our lives are marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

Every believer has the Holy Spirit living inside them, which means every one of us has the ability to produce this kind of fruit. The same way that we water the plants we want to grow and pull the weeds we want to die, if we want to grow more spiritual fruit, we have to feed the Spirit and starve the flesh. 

Practically, that means letting Jesus into every area of our lives. Not just giving Him the first 20 minutes of our day, but asking for His help and guidance throughout the day. As we do, we’ll find more and more opportunities to choose patience over anger, peace over quarrelling, and love over jealousy. 

Reflect: 

• What are some ways your life looks different from non-Christians around you? 
• Where would you like to see more fruits of the Spirit? Is there a place or situation where you find yourself giving into old ways of thinking instead of asking Jesus what He would have you do?