I had always associated the "fruit that will last" in John 15:16 with the fruit of the spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). But I was fellowshipping with a Brother yesterday, and he pointed out that the context of the statement is embedded in this notion of "abiding in the vine" and loving each other. So, he pointed out that "fruit that will remain" is simply building up the Brothers in Christ. This seems consistent with Paul's ambitions to present Believers to Christ as mature disciples (fruit that will last).
So, in that light, how am I doing? Sure, there are several guys with whom I am accountability partners, but how am I actively working to grow other Believers into a more mature disciple of Christ?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for your written Word that tells me how to live. Jesus, I know that you are the author and perfecter of my faith, so I ask you to grow in my life "fruit that will last" and use me to lead others to a closer walk with you. I pray that you will glorify yourself as I pour my life into the lives of others in a way that encourages them to love you with all of their heart, mind, soul, and strength. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, whose death redeemed me, and whose life empowers me. Amen.
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