Roots Reveal Fruits

“Blessed is the man
    who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
    nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree
    planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
    and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.”
The wicked are not so,
    but are like chaff that the wind drives away.” Psalm 1:1-3

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.” Matthew 7:15-20

Many are the admonitions to tend to roots to determine fruit in a Christian’s life. Daily dealings and interactions all make impressions, but it is the source of our thoughts and inclinations that determine output. Beware, warns our Lord, the counsel and company of those who would steer you astray, and stay true to My word if you want to flourish. Root yourself in goodness and truth.

Behavior modification often fails over the long term because we do not identify and address the cause of wayward action. Artificial polish, cursory remorse, or practiced rote responses seem to work temporarily, but are seldom genuine and lasting. They will not stand if the root is unclean. Unless we are willing to do the hard work of digging and admitting the insecurity, pride, jealousy, or resentment that foment wayward impulses, we will never successfully change behavior.

When did I last really listen to and observe myself? Do I hear incessant complaints, the belittling of others, even loved ones, or inflating of myself? What about my tone of voice- does it portray grace and kindness, or bother or impatience? Am I aware of my facial expressions of disdain, dislike, or disapproval? How often do I make choices preferring my agenda and needs over others’? Is my driving motive to look good myself, or to help another succeed? Am I always pompously or stubbornly the expert, or do I give others the benefit of the doubt and make the effort to understand? Have I probed why I attempt to elevate myself while putting another down, or need to have the last word?

The fruit displayed in these areas reveal the health of our roots. It serves God’s people well to explore why we speak and behave as we do, and surrender our deepest part to Him. Only when He has full sway in our root system can we flourish to His glory.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart!
    Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting!” Psalm 139:23-24

Lord, keep my roots pure and strong in You, so I bear abundantly Your name and goodness.