Cultivating Fruitfulness
The evidence of our salvation is the fruit of our actions.
In Genesis 35:11 NKJV, it is written “… Be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall proceed from you, and kings shall come from your body.”
On one hand, fruitfulness speaks to reproductive blessings, and the multiplication of descendants. On the other hand, we can also view it through a spiritual lens. Being fruitful extends beyond creating children; it encompasses the multiplication of God’s character in our lives and in the lives of those we influence (Galatians 5:22-23). We become more like Jesus as a result of God’s working through the Holy Spirit.
However, we must recognize that our journey towards fruitfulness is often met with challenges. You may notice that when the devil attacks us, he specifically targets one or more of our fruits, especially 
where we are weakest. For instance, if you struggle to love others despite their wrongs, you may face intense spiritual warfare regarding the fruit of love. Have you gone through something that made you doubt God’s ability? Here comes the devil to attack your peace, faithfulness and joy. Are you having trouble with lust or desires of the flesh? Here comes the devil to attack your fruit of self-control.
Yet, amid these challenges, we are reminded of the promise of freedom in Galatians 5:1, it is written that “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
For me, freedom and free will are not the same thing in this instance. Free will is given to all, yes, but as children of God, we cannot do just anything we like. We still have a responsibility to live out our purpose. But God gave us freedom from sin so that we would not be burdened again by the yoke of slavery (to sin). We have been liberated from the bondage of sin, enabling us to pursue a life that glorifies God through our fruitfulness. We are no longer under the law but under His abundant grace.
Furthermore, fruitfulness is not merely about our personal growth but also about the impact we have on others. In John 15:5, it emphasizes the interdependence between the believer and Christ, calling us “the branches”. Branches can be understood as natural divisions, a part of a system, or even blood vessel. When we abide in Christ, we are not only nourished by His presence but also empowered to extend His love and grace to those around us.
Through this relationship we can create a community where our spiritual growth contributes to the flourishing of others, creating a ripple effect. As we bear and strengthen our fruits, we reflect God’s character, drawing others closer to Him and fulfilling our mission to spread His love throughout the world. When they see you, they see Him.
As we grow in our relationship with God, may we strive to bear fruit that glorifies Him, impacts others, and fulfills the promises He has spoken over our lives.
Be blessed. Amen.