Are You Bearing Fruit?

Devotional on Ezekiel 15:1-8

Scripture Reading:
"Son of man, how is the wood of the vine better than any wood of a branch which is among the trees of the forest? … Behold, it is given to the fire for fuel. The fire devours both ends of it, and the middle of it is burned. Is it useful for any work?" — Ezekiel 15:2, 4

Devotional Thought

In Ezekiel 15, God gives the prophet a striking image: the nation of Israel is like a vine that has become useless. Unlike other trees, a vine has only one true purpose—to bear fruit. If it does not produce grapes, it is worthless. It cannot be used for construction like an oak or cedar tree. And if it is already burned, it becomes even more useless.

This comparison challenges us to reflect on our own spiritual lives. Are we bearing fruit for God, or have we become spiritually barren? Jesus echoes this teaching in John 15:5-6:

"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned."

Self-Examination: Am I Bearing Fruit?

God created us to bear spiritual fruit—fruit that glorifies Him and impacts others. But what does that look like?

1. The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

   • Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
   • Am I growing in these areas?

2. The Fruit of Good Works (Colossians 1:10)

   • Our faith should lead to action—serving, helping, and witnessing to others.
   • Am I using my gifts and talents for God’s kingdom?

3. The Fruit of Repentance (Matthew 3:8)

   • True faith produces a changed life.
   • Am I turning away from sin and becoming more like Christ?

If we are not bearing fruit, we risk becoming like the vine in Ezekiel 15—discarded and burned. God is patient, but He expects His people to be productive in His kingdom.

How to Start Bearing Fruit

1. Stay Connected to Christ – Just as a branch must remain attached to the vine, we must abide in Jesus daily through prayer, Bible study, and obedience.

2. Allow God to Prune You – Sometimes, God removes distractions, sins, or even relationships that hinder our growth. Be willing to let go and trust His process.

3. Walk in the Spirit – Yield to the Holy Spirit’s leading, allowing Him to transform your character and empower your actions.

4. Serve Others – Bearing fruit is not just about personal growth but also about impacting others for Christ. Look for opportunities to share the gospel, encourage others, and do good works.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, I desire to bear fruit that glorifies You. Help me to abide in Christ and grow in the fruit of the Spirit. Prune away anything in my life that keeps me from fulfilling my purpose. May my life reflect Your love and bring others to know You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. What kind of fruit is my life producing right now?
2. Are there areas where I need to grow in spiritual fruitfulness?
3. How can I stay more connected to Christ daily?

Let this be a time of self-examination and renewed commitment to bearing fruit for God’s kingdom.