There is a silly picture that keeps popping up in my mind. I see a young fruit tree curling its toes (I mean, roots) and pushing with all its might. Its face is scrunched and holding its breath, the tree mutters, “COME ON, FRUIT! POP already. I’m trying as hard as I can.”
On either side of this striving little tree are giant trees, loaded with fruit. They are quiet, faces (make that leaves) turned upward seeking the Son (err, sun).
Can you relate? I sure can. That picture comes straight from the Holy Spirit for me. I am a doer…a toddler crying, “Me do it!” And my Guide, my Comforter says, “That is my work, not yours. Seek the Son.”
The Amplified version of Galatians 5:22-23a renders more clarity:
But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence)…
Spiritual success never flows from striving but only from surrender. The fruit that I produce will have earthly impact, but only the work of the Spirit produces eternally good fruit. I don’t want to waste my time striving anymore. I want to soak in the sun and live with joy–that will produce the growth I long to see!
It is pride that pushes. Hope is found in humility. Seeing our need, seeking the One who meets all needs and joyful receiving Him produces victory. Putting our roots into the soil of God’s love while reaching up to the Light of His love is the key to beautiful fruit that blesses us and others.
What desire beats strong in your heart? What blocks that desire from being fulfilled? Ask the Spirit within…He knows and wants you to know as well. Press in deeply and watch Him work!
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Heartsong Ministries 