Sometimes we can be "going through the motions" Christians, we do good deeds because we know that that is what we are supposed to do. But are these works as a result of our growth and our "remaining in Christ"? Or are we rather dry and dead looking inside, but doing our best by our own effort (and will) to bear fruit.
You can't tack on fruit to a dead tree and expect it to live – so we need to make sure that our bearing fruit is a result of who we are and where we are, not just an attempt at holy busyness. Sometimes I can be guilty of trying to do the right thing, because it is the right thing, not because I am "right with God".
If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. John 15: 6-7 [NIV]
Let's concentrate on the heart, what is our deepest innermost being – not merely the tasks in our lives or the superficial exterior.
"People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts." 1 Samuel 16:7b [CEV]
Heavenly Father, thank you that you have searched me and know me – that I can't hide anything from you. Help me to remain in Christ, so that I will grow and bear fruit. Amen.
Memory Verse: Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24 [NIV]
Dave MacLellan
(based on Saddleback Church resource material)
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