Jesus taught about good soil in the parable of “the sower” (Matthew 13:23). This soil represents the person who has God’s word planted and cultivated in their hearts. This person’s heart flourishes and bears much fruit for the glory of God.

What does this fruit look like? What produce will God bring about in the life of the person who has a righteous heart?

The Fruit of Conversion

  • Conversion involves going through the process of spiritual transformation. The converted person is born again and becomes a new creature in Christ (John 3:3-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:22-24).
  • Paul and Apollos planted and watered God’s word in the hearts of the Corinthians, but God gave the increase (1 Corinthians 3:5-7). God’s word is what converted them (Romans 1:16).
  • The conversion of the Thessalonians involved them turning away from the false gods of their society (1 Thessalonians 1:8-9; 2:13).
  • The fruit of conversion leads a disciple to give up false religion, corrupt friends, trashy entertainment, and a life full of hypocrisy.

The Fruit of Maturity

  • God expects Christians to be constantly growing. Paul lives his life discontent with his spiritual progress before the Lord (Philippians 3:12).
  • When a believer constantly longs for and receives the word of God, God grows and takes their faith to a higher level (1 Peter 2:1-2).
  • The maturity of a Christian will manifest itself in their giving, time in prayer, acts of forgiveness, and consideration of others.

The Fruit of Good Works

  • The disciple with a heart for God will stand out and be noticeable (Matthew 5:16). He will bear fruit and prove to be an authentic follower of Jesus (John 15:8).
  • People will be able to judge him as a person of righteousness (Matthew 7:17-20).
  • The gospel continually calls for good works in the lives of God’s people (Romans 6:22; Colossians 1:10; Galatians 5:22-23).
  • Paul viewed winning the lost as fruit that he bore for the Lord (Romans 1:13).

The Fruit of Becoming Like Jesus

  • Plowing the field of our hearts is ultimately designed to make us more like Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1; Romans 8:29; Philippians 2:3-5).
  • Those who look like Jesus never trivialize and minimize the seriousness of sin. They walk around with a selfless mindset in life. They practice self-control over their tempers and passions. They focus first on God’s will and not their own.
  • Living a life that imitates Jesus is the greatest fruit that a person with a righteous heart can enjoy!

Conclusion:

Are you enjoying the fruit that God gives to those who invest their hearts in growing for Him?