Keeping In Check

There's a statement that I won't forget that Jesus mentioned in Luke 6:44, "Each tree is recognized by its own fruit." We can tell what kind of tree it is by the fruit it produces. So we can with people. If we want to know what someone is like, look at the fruit they produce. 1 Timothy 5:24-25 has something to say about this too. 

The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden.

Here this past week, I've had a worship department meeting in which we asked what worship is and how to define it. The basis of our understanding of it comes from Romans 12:1-2. But we see worship in the Bible mostly being a response in appreciation to the character of God. It begins with devoted time and surrender to Him. It takes a transformed mind that is constantly renewed day by day to know the difference between the way of the world and The Way of God. Our lives can give worship to God at any time and any place.


1 Timothy 5 tells me that worship is also directional. I know this passage has to do with appointing elders, but it also defines the direction in which a potential elder is headed. I think it can be true and applicable to all of us as well. We can tell a tree by the fruit it produces. And in appointing people in leadership, it is extremely important to take time in making proper judgment on their character. But let it be a reminder to us, a wake-up call to keep our lives in check. 


Some things are obvious and others are not. But even the things that are hidden will be unveiled eventually. We cannot hide it forever. Whether it be our sins or good deeds, all will show themselves someday. Think about it. The good and bad things we do give us an atmosphere that defines us and builds a reputation of who we really are. Some of us have gotten really good at hiding things. But it won't matter someday. Its affect on our minds and thought process will show up in our interaction with others, especially with those most important to us. And it's why we need to pray every day for a renewed mind so we'll know what God's pleasing, perfect, and good will is. 


Our lives point to something. God pointed to us with His extravagant love through His only Son's death on the cross. Our response, both public and private, to His goodness and mercy and grace should be a life that now points directly to Him in all we think, say, and do. 


Where are you and I pointing? Who are you and I worshiping? Is it evident? Is it true? Does the fruit we produce clearly show a life that is constantly thankful toward God for His life He gave up for us?