Daily Devotional - The ABCs of Fruitfulness - Week 6 - Day 34 - 2/3/26 - "Known by Their Fruit"

Author: Evangelist Crystal Poston

“Known by Their Fruit”
Scripture: Matthew 7:17-20, NLT

“A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit.  A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.”

Devotion:
Jesus gives this metaphor of trees and fruit to teach us that what is inside a person will eventually show on the outside. Just as a tree is identified by the fruit it bears, our lives will reveal what is in our hearts. Our words and appearances can trick others for a little while, but consistent fruit tells the truth about our character.

Good fruit represents love, patience, humility, integrity, obedience and stems from a life rooted in Christ. Bad fruit reveals bitterness, pride, dishonesty, and division and it reveals a heart that needs to be renewed. This verse does not mean we are to judge others harshly, but we are to discern wisely, such as with false prophets. We must also honestly examine ourselves to ensure that we are truly bearing good fruit and representing Christ well.

Fruit grows through abiding in Christ, surrendering daily, and allowing the Holy Spirit to nurture our character. When we stay connected to Jesus, the changes in our lives become evident. It is not for our glory, but is a witness to God’s work within us.

Prayer:
Lord, examine our hearts and strengthen our relationship with You. Remove anything that does not honor You, and grow in us fruit that reflects Your love and truth. Let our lives always point others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.