‘…A tree is known by its fruit.’ Matthew 12:33 NKJ
There’s an old saying, ‘If you were accused of being a Christian, would anyone find enough evidence to convict you?’ Hmm. What evidence would they find? Maybe they’d find your Spotify playlist full of the best of Hillsong. A ‘WWJD’ bracelet tucked away in your drawer. Maybe an old Easterfest programme knocking about.
Ok for a start, but what about the deeper stuff? Would they find you praying when the door is locked? Or volunteering down the old folks’ home (or Foodbank) without being asked? Or slipping an extra tenner in the collection plate when nobody is looking? Would they find you on Bible Gateway more often than Facebook? Meditating more than gaming? Encouraging as opposed to backbiting? Could they trust you, respect you, admire your honesty? Would you be found moping or inspired? Lustful or loving? Jesus didn’t say, ‘A Christian is known by the size of his fish bumper–sticker.’ No, He said, ‘…a tree is recognised by its fruit.’ (Matthew 12:33 NIV) ‘You…must be an example…by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.’ (Titus 2:7 NLT)
God’s done everything needed to open up your relationship with Him. You can’t ‘work‘ it into perfection. But—relationship—yeah? Now He’s made it available, have all of the areas of your life got involved in that relationship? How do you fare with these challenges? Think your relationship needs more commitment? Pray. Prayer is always the fuel for Godly character. Ask God for more good evidence in your life.
SoulFood: Job 21-23, Lk 2:1-7, Ps 128, Ecc 10:5-9
word4U2day (an adaptation of The Word for Today authored by Bob & Debby Gass) is published under licence by UCB Australia. 2014 UCB International Ltd
