The Word - April 26, 2012 - CULTIVATING THE FRUIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

"Having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:11).

After facing life-threatening situations, people often say, "I saw my entire life flash before my eyes." That's the picture we get in our Scripture for today.

"The fruit of righteousness" refers to what is produced in you as you operate in love, pursue excellence, and maintain your integrity. It includes every attitude and action consistent with God's standard of what is right.

"Having been filled" speaks of something that happened in the past with continuing results. At the moment of your salvation, the seed of righteousness was planted within you. It bears righteous fruit throughout your lifetime. On the day of Christ that fruit will be the confirmation of your salvation.

Fruitfulness has always been the acid test of true salvation. Jesus said, "If you abide in my word, then you are truly disciples of mine" (John 8:31). Paul said we are God's workmanship, "created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10).

Bearing spiritual fruit is not something you can achieve on your own. It comes through Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:11). Jesus Himself said, "Abide in me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches, he who abides in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:4-5).

You were redeemed to glorify God through righteous deeds. Make that your priority today!