Devotion for Tuesday, May 21, 2024

“You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes, nor figs from thistles, are they?” (Matthew 7:16)

Behavior matters.  It is not about being saved; Jesus does that.  It is about the sanctified character the Lord is creating in you.  If you are only outwardly a Christian, then you are not a Christ follower.  What you do reflects what you believe, and what you believe guides what you do.  Jesus tells us to bear fruit befitting the kingdom of God.  If you follow Christ, your acts will reflect the character of Christ.

Lord God, You have created all things, each according to their kind.  By Your grace, through faith, You are producing those who are being conformed to the image of Christ.  Help those who are on this journey to bear the good fruit You intend.  Let not the way of the world interfere or distract from the narrow way You have placed before all who are on the path of salvation.  Lead Your people in the way of Christ.

Lord Jesus, what You say is clear and makes sense.  I know these things in my head, but often become distracted and take side trails away from what You have said.  First, forgive my transgressions and second, lead me back onto the narrow way You have established.  Help me to keep my eyes upon You and not upon what is being produced.  Grow in me the good fruits of Your kingdom.  Amen.