“11 Dear friend, don’t let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God’s children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God.”
When we plant apple seeds, we expect an apple tree to grow. It's the seed and the roots that decide what kind of tree grows in the soil.
Similarly, when we belong to God we expect goodness and righteousness to grow in our lives. It is the fruit of our actions that tells us what kind of seeds we have planted.
John cautions us to be mindful of what type of fruit our lives produce. When we truly belong to God, and we spend time with Him, our lives will naturally produce goodness and right living.
What this means for you
It is easy to copy the people around us. We pick up their words, their habits and their attitude without even noticing. That is why John says, follow only what is good. The people you spend time with will shape you, for better or for worse.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:16 that you will know a tree by its fruit. Fruit does not grow overnight. It grows slowly, as the roots go deep. In the same way, a heart that follows God grows little by little, as we spend time in His Word, in prayer and with His people.
So do not be discouraged if you are not where you want to be yet. Keep your roots in Jesus. Stay close to Him. The fruit will come. Love, joy, peace, patience and kindness will start to show in your home, at work and in the way you speak to people.
Think about it
What kind of fruit can people see in your life right now?
Is there an example around you that you need to stop following?
Pray:
Heavenly Father, we truly desire to imitate and know You! Guide us as we seek to follow You with our whole heart. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Keep going
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