Colorful Words

Why is an orange called an orange but a lemon not called a “yellow,” or a lime called a “green?” Words convey information. We know what God means when He talks about someone having a heart of stone. When we proclaim to be a Christian, what does that mean? It means we are someone who believes Jesus is the Son of God who died for our sins and offered us eternal life. It also should mean the lives we live are different then the norm. In today’s culture, sexual immorality, deceit, greed, selfishness, are all so common they are almost to be expected. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Politicians? Oh, they all lie.” It’s as if, we are resigned to that being reality, and we should not expect anything more.

God expects more of those who proclaim to be His followers. He expects people will be able to identify His followers without having to be told who they are. Jesus says, “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad” (Matthew 12:23).

If we use the word Christian to describe ourselves, then others should be able to see our fruit, because our lives would reflect our professed faith. That’s why the Bible says,

“Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes – these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world” (Ephesians 5:3-5).

      

So, stay close to Christ. Talk to Him everyday. Ask Him to lead you and guide you and follow His lead. If we do Jesus promises,

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit” (John 15:5).

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