DIVINE FRUITFULNESS
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30
We give all the glory to the Lord for His mercy and faithfulness. He has seen us through the two-thirds of the year 2024. The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works. Psalm 145:9. To Him alone be the glory and honor in Jesus mighty name.
This month of September, our theme is “Divine Fruitfulness.” The number nine symbolizes fruitfulness. Proverbs 11:30 says “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” This verse beautifully encapsulates the powerful impact of righteous living.
God at creation commands fruitfulness in Genesis 1: 28a, He said, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it.” Fruitfulness could be physical or Spiritual. We shall discuss an aspect of Spiritual fruitfulness. This is the ability to bear good fruit or positive outcomes because of faith in the Lord. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.
Winning souls is bringing people to faith in Jesus Christ. This is seen as a vital aspect of the Christian mission, rooted in the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).
The “tree of life” is a recurring symbol in Scripture, often representing eternal life, wisdom, and divine blessing. Here, it signifies the positive influence that righteous people have on others. Their lives are like a tree that provides sustenance, shelter, and renewal.
Winning souls doesn’t refer to a forceful conversion but rather to winning people over through the compelling example of a righteous life. It’s about inspiring and leading others toward a path of righteousness and life through the Lord Jesus Christ. The lives and preachings of Apostle Peter and Paul drew many to the Lord.
Key Aspects of Fruitfulness in Winning Souls:
1. Authenticity: Jesus’ Example: “For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and what to speak.” (John 12:49). Peter’s Preaching: “And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4:33) Genuine faith and a lived-out Christian life are powerful testimonies. People are more likely to be drawn to Christ when they see His love and truth reflected in the lives of believers.
2. Love: Jesus’ Command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31) Jesus emphasized love as the greatest commandment. Loving others, even those who may not share our beliefs, is a powerful way to demonstrate the love of Christ and draw them closer to Him.
3. Compassion: Compassionate Jesus: “He saw the crowds and was moved with pity for them, because they were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36). Showing compassion and understanding to those who are struggling or lost can create a bridge to their hearts. Offering a listening ear and a helping hand can make a significant difference.
4.Prayer: Jesus’ Example: “And he continued all night in prayer to God.” (Luke 6:12). Paul’s Plea: “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1) Consistent prayer is essential for spiritual fruitfulness. Praying for the salvation of others and for wisdom and guidance in sharing the gospel is a powerful way to support the work of winning souls.
5.Community: Jesus’ Ministry: “He went around all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.” (Matthew 9:35). Paul’s Approach: “So I eagerly gave my time to preaching the gospel and testifying to the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24) Building a strong Christian community can provide a supportive environment for both believers and those who are exploring their faith. A welcoming and loving community can be a powerful magnet for others.
6.Sharing the Gospel: Great Commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Paul’s Preaching: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16). While the focus is on love and compassion, sharing the gospel message is ultimately the goal of winning souls. This can be done through personal conversations, public preaching, or other means.
Fruitfulness in winning souls is not just about numbers but about quality. It’s about seeing lives transformed by the power of the gospel and witnessing the growth of God’s kingdom.
PRAYERS
1. Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me for giving the Lord Jesus Christ for me to be saved.
2. Lord, I pray that You will ignite a passion within me to share Your love and truth with those who do not know You.
3. Father, give me the courage and wisdom to speak Your Word with clarity and compassion
4. Father, give me discernment to recognize the needs and hearts of those I encounter.
5. May Your Spirit guide my steps and equip me with the necessary tools to lead others to You. In Jesus’ name.
6. Heavenly Father, I ask for Your boldness to share Your gospel without fear.
7. Holy Spirit, I invite You to fill me with Your power and presence. Guide my steps and inspire my words and let the fruits abide in Jesus mighty name.
May the Lord make us to be fruitful in Jesus’ name.
Welcome to the month of Divine Fruitfulness.
Yours in the Lord,
Pastor Lillian Haastrup
