Josh, what you write really touches on an important point. I don't think we're supposed to be spending a lot of effort inspecting fruit. Jesus' point is that false prophets bear bad fruit (not just "no" fruit). For me, the fruit he is speaking of lies less in what is or is not being "accomplished" but in the kind of spirit that is displayed and furthered. Anyway, I appreciate the reminder that our biggest enemy is our own egos.
Well said. Fruit that remains is difficult to discern but undoubtedly it is the work of Gods spirit and not our strength alone. I have been sobered often by the Providence of God. It seems I cannot judge “good” fruit. Maybe it’s simply our job to do the work of a Gardner, to till, plant, water, prune…keeping our eyes always to the ground instead of inspecting the fruit? Sometimes we give tremendous effort and nothing is given, other times, with seemingly little effort great fruit comes forth. I am grateful for the simplicity that comes when I am robbed of my ego.
Josh, what you write really touches on an important point. I don't think we're supposed to be spending a lot of effort inspecting fruit. Jesus' point is that false prophets bear bad fruit (not just "no" fruit). For me, the fruit he is speaking of lies less in what is or is not being "accomplished" but in the kind of spirit that is displayed and furthered. Anyway, I appreciate the reminder that our biggest enemy is our own egos.
Well said. Fruit that remains is difficult to discern but undoubtedly it is the work of Gods spirit and not our strength alone. I have been sobered often by the Providence of God. It seems I cannot judge “good” fruit. Maybe it’s simply our job to do the work of a Gardner, to till, plant, water, prune…keeping our eyes always to the ground instead of inspecting the fruit? Sometimes we give tremendous effort and nothing is given, other times, with seemingly little effort great fruit comes forth. I am grateful for the simplicity that comes when I am robbed of my ego.