“Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”
Matthew 7:20/NIV
In this focal passage, Jesus refers to “fruit” as qualities people may have and how to know who friend or foe may be. He tells us quickly: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Matthew 7:15/NIV). Some people come before us saying all the right things, but their actions demonstrate unworthy qualities, which is one way of figuring them out. People who claim to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior may not know Him, and they are false prophets, wolves in sheep’s clothing, and their hearts are like ravenous wolves!
Jesus tells us: “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit” (Matthew 7:16-17/NIV). Jesus wants us to know from who to disassociate and those with whom we are to congregate. Start by staying away from the “thornbushes and thistles,” which reflect poor qualities apparent by their actions! We live in a time where international leaders of very powerful nations are making poor decisions leading to the violation of others! These leaders are examples of “thornbushes and thistles!”
Jesus tells us to look for the good trees which bear good fruit! Good trees (people) demonstrate good qualities seeking to help others with no strings attached! 1 John 3:18 provides good pointers for people seeking to bear good fruit: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions rooted in truth” (NIV). This passage indicates our truthful actions are the best ways to demonstrate the heart of Jesus Christ, which reflects the love we should have! The Bible tells us good people demonstrate good actions which are helpful to others!
God faithfully provides me with many inspirational moments to write about with Bible verses that directly apply. I wear many hats in life with differing levels of responsibility, and there are occasions when I am not physically able to keep up with the demands. I am a mere mortal! One of my responsibilities involves coordinating and providing care for my elderly mother, and there are times when I need much help. God has faithfully provided me with a group of kind ladies bearing good fruit who cheerfully reflect God’s love! “Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:20/NIV). Thank you, God, for sending these angels in human form who demonstrate actions and truth that reflect their good fruit! Thank you, ladies, for demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ! Amen!
Many blessings to you!
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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