As we drove the highway through central California, we saw thousands of fruit trees and grape vines. Most of them looked strong and healthy, ready to produce delicious fruit. Some, however, looked a bit scrawny and unhealthy and not at all likely to produce good fruit.
Matthew 7:16-17 says, “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.” You can tell whether you’re walking with God in righteousness by the type of fruit your actions are bearing. If your deeds bring forth love, joy, peace, and kindness, you are faithfully walking close to Him. If your deeds are producing anger, jealousy, pride, and strife, you are walking away from God.
Reluctant Retiree 