March 3, 2024
Jesus Teaches About Fruit In Peoples Lives
Matthew 7: 15-23
15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
True and False Disciples
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
REFLECTION:
In reading today’s teaching, I see that people will be deceptive and cunning to pull us away from God. When Christ said they are like ferocious wolves in sheep’s clothing, it makes me think of how detrimental the interaction with these people can be.
APPLICATION:
When I encounter people I should consider how they impact my life. How am I motivated to walk in the Lord by this person?
PRAYER:
Father I thank you that you have provided wisdom to recognize those who mean no good to your Kingdom and if I want to follow you, I ask that you help me to see and obey your instruction to watch out for them.