1022 Proving our Faith - John 15:8

How do we prove we're disciples of Jesus?   "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples." John 15:8 NASB95   We prove our relationship to Jesus by bearing fruit. But if you read what it means to bear fruit, you can get differing opinions.   Some talk about the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5 which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We can always demonstrate more of these. The supply of the fruit of the Spirit is only limited by the strength of our relationship to Jesus.   Others think bearing fruit is leading others to trust Jesus. We actually talk about helping others move one notch closer to Jesus.   We know from this verse that when we bear fruit, we glorify the Father; we help others see him and know him better.   My working definition for bearing fruit is living a life that can't be explained without including Jesus. When an apple shows up, we know it's an apple tree. When a grape shows up, we know it's a grape vine. When the evidence of Jesus is present, we know the person acting is a Jesus follower.   Our job today is to live our lives following Jesus. In the end, we won't look like everyone else. We can practice any of our daily habits and expect Jesus to become a bit more visible to the people around us. Right now, the Holy Spirit may be giving you an idea that he can use to glorify God. Don't tell him "No." Rather figure out how you can do what he asks. You'll experience joy. You'll see the Father glorified. And you'll prove to be a disciple of Jesus'.