It is easy to focus on Israel's failure to produce, but I can fail the same way. Fruitfulness is an expectation, even a demand because God is the one who provides everything I need. All I have to do is work. I'm not talking about working for my salvation, but working out my salvation. I could develop the attitude of the first tenants and think that what God provided is mine and that I don't have to give an account to anyone. Failure to produce is not an option.
What kind of fruit does God expect from me? For starters, the fruits of the Spirit should be evident in my life. It is imperative that I take inventory of each one of them and ensure that they are produce in my vineyard: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. How am I doing? There is certainly a lot of room to grow. The trend is encouraging, but I can't be lazy or careless. I must continue to work. Gardeners know this better than most: A good harvest requires much work and care.
The fruit of my vineyard should be filled with good deeds also. God has prepared many good deeds for me to do. Helping those in need. Serving the local church. Providing for those who suffer. All these are good works designed for me to do and I must not shy away from them. Ultimately, what good is faith if there are no works. Part of the good works I must accomplish is evangelism. To be a witness for the kingdom so it can expand and grow. Every soul that comes into the kingdom becomes a precious fruit of my labors.
Lord, give me diligence and watchfulness to work in your vineyard. Don't let me become a bum who produces no fruit. May there be abundant fruit in my life day by day. Strengthen me to work; encourage me to persevere; fill me with hope.
