“This is to my Father’s glory, that you
bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be
my disciples.” John 15:8
They are watching. They are looking. They
are searching for truth. Many are hoping to
find authenticity, someone with a sincere
faith. Does God exist? Is he real? Can he be
trusted? Can he be reached?
“They” are our family, friends, co-workers,
acquaintances, and neighbors. In the search
for true faith, the world is investigating all
faiths for spiritual truth. Though some will
study our books, Bibles, tracts and even
listen to our sermons, most are intently
looking at people “of faith”. Do they really
live what they say they believe, they ask?
As they watch us closely, what will they
see?
– Do our words, actions, or lifestyle
point to a walk with God or a walk
with the world?
– Do our lives show any signs of
spiritual integrity: worship, prayer,
ministry, giving or personal
sacrifice?
– If not disciples of Jesus, whose
disciples do we look like?
With his statement above, Jesus was trying
to encourage his disciples to live a life that
would: (1) bring glory to God the Father,
(2) bear true spiritual fruit, and (3) prove
they were real disciples of Jesus.
If in answering the questions, you feel a
sense of conviction about what your life
reflects, don’t think about changing your
words, actions, or thoughts as the solution.
You would only be dealing with the
symptom. The problem lies much deeper
within.
What is your relationship with Christ? Is
God real for you? Is He Lord and Savior?
Are you practicing your faith or just
exercising your religion? In your prayers,
are you communicating with God or simply
fulfilling a religious duty? Do you read the
Bible regularly for fellowship and
inspiration or knowledge and education? Is
going to church an activity or an
experience? Are you attending worship as a
spectator or participator? Are you living
daily for Christ or for self?
The answers to these questions will help us
determine what real changes need to be
made in our walk with God. Maybe the first
messages of Jesus still have significance
today:
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is
near!” Matt. 4:17
Search my heart, oh God…..Bro. Sherman
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