Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Seeing Fruit and Victory


And He caused His people to be very fruitful, and made them stronger than their adversaries. Psalm 105:24

Although these words were spoken in regards to Israel, they are God’s intention for His children today. As believers, they capstone two very essential qualities He desires to be evidenced in our lives…fruitfulness and victory. Both must come out of a life that daily connects with God and lives in intimate relationship with Him. This morning I am asking myself how well I am doing at bearing fruit and being stronger than my adversaries.

When I think of fruit on a tree I see something that can nourish others as well as show that the tree is alive. I want my words and actions to nourish others and to show them that I am alive in Christ. Sometimes we limit “bearing fruit” to leading others to Christ. While that is certainly important (and thrilling when it happens) it is not the only thing that constitutes fruit in the life of the believer. Any conversation or interaction with individuals that shows them an aspect of God is a way of sowing seed that will eventually result in fruit. May God help us to see the moments in each day when we are able to show others who He is and what He is like by our lives.

When I first saw the phrase “stronger than their enemies” I immediately thought of the verse that says, “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.” Satan is obviously our number one enemy but not the only enemy. Strongholds, addictions, generational bents, sins, certain people, over whelming circumstances and a host of other things can be our daily adversaries. Those things which can cause us to stumble are not suppose to have the victory over us. Through Christ we are MADE stronger than all of them. But many times we don’t know our own strength and we don’t live as if we are stronger.

The key is in the two words “caused” and “made”. It is God who is working in us to make this verse a reality in our life. He alone can reveal to us what is hindering either one from being true for us. This morning this verse becomes not only a challenge but a promise!

Father, may fruit and victory both be evidenced in my life on a daily basis. May Christ be seen in me! Amen.