As Jesus Christ teaches in the book of John to his disciples, He lets them know from where their strength comes. They were successful in their ministry because they kept their eyes, mind, and heart focused on the teachings of Jesus and carried out the mission work He placed before them. However, Jesus also clearly stated that they could do nothing without Him. It brings to mind the slogan from an old American Express credit card commercial, “better not leave home without it.” In this case, “better not leave home without Jesus.”
Focal Bible verses:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. This is my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. This is my command: Love each other.”
John 15:5, 8 and 17 (NIV)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
Jesus also encourages the disciples to be fruit-bearing, which will glorify God. Our actions and deeds should be ones that do not bring glory to us but should glorify our Heavenly Father: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NIV).
As followers of Jesus Christ set forth each day, being mindful of these Bible verses would be critically important. Knowing that believers possess the fruit of the Spirit and that we should bear much fruit (Galatians 5:22-23; John 15:5, 8, 17; NIV) should provide a compass that gives us the direction to go and how to act. As believers go where the Holy Spirit leads them and complete the mission the Lord sets before them, they will be fruit-bearing. When believers seek to be fruit-bearing, they will demonstrate the qualities described in the Galatians Biblical reference.
As followers of Jesus Christ set out on their daily journey, it is good to do so in a manner that reflects the following: “love, joy, peace, patience, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” When individuals demonstrate these qualities with Christ in their hearts, this will glorify God! Self-reflection question: As a disciple of Jesus Christ, how can I use the fruit of the Holy Spirit daily while demonstrating Christ-like love to others to bring glory to God? 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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