This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. – (John 15:8, NIV)
Show that you are my followers by producing much fruit. This will bring honor to my Father. – (John 15:8, ERV)
Your abundant growth and your faithfulness as My followers will bring glory to the Father. – (John 15:8, VOICE)
Yesterday, our pastor continued in a series that is unpacking our foundational beliefs. The focus this week, was on discipleship. Pastor Omar opened with the question, “Is being a disciple of Jesus about what we do or who we are?” As he continued, it became clear that who we are as a disciple, permeates into everything we do. However, it is less about “what” we do specifically, and instead, whether or not we bear fruit; the fruit being that of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23) The fruit found in our lives, is what demonstrates discipleship to the world. He went on to talk about what it takes to actually bear fruit; for a seed planted will not grow if it is not set in good soil, nourished and cared for properly. Soil that is rich in what is right and intended for our good growth exists when we are planted in the Presence of God, the Word of God, and the Family of God. Each of these three are necessary to grow our faith and spur one another on into all that we have been called to become. May we ever be intentional to invest in the soil of our lives, so that we may be bearers of the fruit of God.
It is to God’s glory, 
When we bear much fruit;
It shares of His story,
His grace, resolute.
Choose to plant in good soil,
Enriched with the things;
That grow and establish,
Deep roots and strong wings.
Roots grown in God’s presence,
With time in His Word;
And wings to keep flying,
Surrounded and heard.
Our peace, patience, kindness,
And gentleness too;
Love and faithfulness,
Show growth that is true.
A life with self-control,
Too, tells the story;
Of a most faithful God,
And brings Him glory.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You desire for each of us to be Your disciples – not by what we do, but rather in who we are. Thank You that You show us what it is to grow and invest in good soil so that we may establish deep roots in You and bear much fruit. Forgive us for the times that our fruit has been bruised or rotten, as we allowed our own egos or agendas to get in the way of what You were doing in or through us. Teach us to trust You more, so that we are intentional to invest time in Your presence, Your Word, and in the community to which You have called us. Show us how to love well and bear fruit that lasts. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we love You and choose to follow You as life-long learners. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
Revelations In Writing 