November 19, 2011 (Matthew 1-4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance;” Matthew 3:8 NASB
Observation: John the Baptist preached a message that said, repent and change your behavior! A verbal profession of faith meant little to John, he wanted to see the change in people’s actions that proved they had repented and embraced the Spirit of God. He proclaimed a message that said if you have repented you will walk a new walk and good fruit would be evident for all to see.
Application: Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins. God looks beyond our words, rituals and religious activities and sees if our conduct matches what we profess. A profession of faith in Christ is determined to be real or fake by the fruit that is produced in the life of the one making such a profession. Real repentance will result in real good fruit.
Prayer: Dear Lord thank You for this day that You have made! You are the awesome God who is great and mighty to deliver and protect Your people. Help me today live this life in a manner that is well pleasing to You. May my actions support my profession of repentance and good fruit be produced to Your glory. In Jesus name, Amen!