Worthy Fruits

Bear fruits worthy of repentance (Luke 3:8) NRSV

I am pretty fortunate to live in a location where fresh fruits are everywhere. I often visit the local markets to pick up the fresh produce that local farmers have sown and reaped. As I thought about the fruit stands, I was reminded of this verse in Luke. In this passage, John the Baptist is speaking to a crowd full of people including the Pharisees and the Sadducees petitioning not only that audience, but us as well to- examine our ways.

I studied this verse and have been thinking about this verse since early this week, asking God what it means and how it pertains to the life of believers in this time right now. To bear something is to endure and what we produce in our life including our actions is the fruit that should be in alignment with Gods will for us; not what the world desires to see. Living a life in deep repentance requires a level of humility, that, to be honest is very rare to see these days.

Many, even in church systems, perform instead of produce and those actions are not rooted in revelation but more so demonstration. And to be transparent, there was a time in my own life when I thought performing was producing, until I realized that my spiritual walk was stunted and I felt far from God although I thought I was doing “holy” things to please man instead of prioritizing God.

I am thankful for this reminder of what true repentance represents. Turning away from that act of religion and devoting time to true relationship with God, the Body of Christ and to all has caused death to pride and has given me more access to His grace. What we are sowing daily can either produce the fruit that as John the Baptist states is “worthy of repentance” or be just for show without any long term sustenance.

I pray that we all continue to examine what we are doing, saying and becoming each day. As God continues to highlight areas that require repentance and submission, let us all so diligently seek His guidance and His gentle embrace.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment