DAY 27
Matthew 7:17-20
17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
THOUGHT
In this passage, Jesus talks to His disciples about true and false prophets and how to recognize them. But most importantly, He is showing us through His disciples how to truly be stewards of the Gospel. If they represent Him, He would want people to look at them, seeing trees that bear good fruit.
Have you ever thought, "Why can't God just show people how good He is Himself? Why does he need me?" God could spread His love and spread His Gospel on His own if He wanted to. However, our mission extends beyond verbal communication; it involves living our lives in a manner that radiates Jesus. When someone looks at your life, can they tell you're a follower of Jesus?
We don't want to be fans of Jesus because that means we are just watching. But we want to be followers of Jesus because that means we are doing. Sometimes, we take for granted that we can be vessels or trees bearing good fruit that carry out His love. We often say, "Well, God, I'm too tired, not qualified, and in a bad mood." But we need to realize two things:
1- We don't deserve His good news and His love to begin with; but, He gives it anyway.
2- We are imperfect beings who don't deserve to carry out His perfect Gospel, but He gives us the privilege to do so.
ACTION
Walk, teach, and speak in the ways that God has called you to lead yourself and others.
PRAYER
God, help me steward my life so that the only things that I am putting into my spirit are glorifying Your name. Help me bear good fruit and be the light that you called me to be. Amen.