Strong spirits: fruit
We are entering the season when lots of fresh fruit is becoming available. Much to my delight! I have so many favorites... Do you?
The Bible talks about fruit quite a bit, both the natural and the spiritual variety. For example, at the very beginning of the Bible we are told it was the eating of a particular fruit that got us all in trouble! (Genesis 3). The Apostle Paul lists what he calls the "fruit of the spirit" as what shows up in our lives when we live them surrendered to Jesus, as well as a list of what shows up when we don't. (Galatians 5). And Jesus tells us that he is the vine and we are the branches, and that we must remain in him to bear good fruit. (John 15).
He further tells us that we can know a person's character by what fruit shows us in their life. And not just other people. You and I as well. Kind of scary. What kind of fruit do others observe in my life? In yours? (Luke 6)
I want to produce the kind of fruit that is pleasing to God and to others. And I can when I surrender to him. I know I'd rather have a juicy peach than a mouth full of thistles. How about you?
