Our Fruit

"You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered

 from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?"  Matthew 7:16

 

"Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick

figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers."  Luke 6:44

 

 "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct

is pure and right."  Proverbs 20:11

 

What does your actions and behaviors say about you??

It's funny how God works sometimes.  It's been one of those days where you really want to go back to bed and start over...only your scared it might end up worse.  One of those days where when by the end, you feel like you've been through a fight ~ and lost.  Yeah, we've all had those.  Where else to go when you feel beat up by the world?  A place of refugee for the lost and broken.  And what would the message be about tonight?  The fruits of the spirit.  Better yet ~  what they say about us.

It says in Matthew 7:20, "Thus you will recognize them by their fruits."  Our relationship with God is a personal one.  I cannot look into your heart and see that you are saved.  Yet, when we have that relationship, we are filled with the Fruits of the Spirit.  We are filled with love, joy, peace, kindness, gentleness, and self-control.  Yes, we are only human with lots of errors.  I have raised my voice to my children. But, I do apologize.  Every night I tuck them in, kiss them goodnight, and tell them how much I love them.  (yes, even the teenagers)

I hope that when others look at me they see love, kindness, acceptance.  I hope they can see the peace and faith that is deep inside of me because of the trails and tribulations that God has seen me through.  Those are the fruits that I would like others to see within me.  What would you like for others to see when they look at you?  Our actions and behaviors are the only way others can see the love of Christ.  WE are the billboard for Christ in a way.  We are the walking advertisement for Christ.  Our own behavior can turn some one towards Christ because they want some of that hope and joy we have.  Or it can turn others away because of our negative attitudes.  Even our own children will not learn to lean on God, unless they see you lean on God.  Our behavior truly effects others.  Lets make our fruit sweet and bring pleasure to our King.