In the grocery store, we see a vast array of fruit with little stickers on them. Apples and oranges - each has a sticker on it, identifying who ‘produced‘ it. Of course, we all know that just because a piece of fruit has a sticker on it, that doesn’t mean that the fruit is good. Some may certainly have a nice, brightly colored sticker and look like good fruit on the outside but they may be spoiled or rotten inside.
The same can be said for people. We who are believers in and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ also may have stickers on us. Some stickers read Nazarene, some read Baptist, others Mennonite or Episcopalian . . . . You get the idea. Here, too, we must realize that just because we have a sticker on us, that doesn’t mean that we produce good fruit.
What, you ask, is the good fruit which is to be produced by those of us who claim to be followers of and lovers of God? Scripture plainly tells us:
But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.
Galatians 5:22-23
May we who claim to love God manifest Him from inside out. May we not only look good on the outside by our good deeds, but may we be good on the inside where God, Himself sees us.
Heavenly Father, please help me please You by bearing Your fruit which is of lasting significance. In Jesus’ name. Amen
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