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“The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs.” (Mark 11:12-13, NIV)
On the second day while going into Jerusalem, Jesus saw a fig tree ahead and being hungry he went to the fig tree. He figured since there were leaves on the tree, (a fig tree grows its leaves after the figs appear) then there should be figs. But when He got to the tree, He saw no figs on the tree.
Because the leaves were on the tree, figs should have been on the tree. However, there wasn’t any. It was a fruit tree without fruits. Just useless. It was an unproductive tree. God had created it for a purpose, but it refused to fulfill it. The tree was only taking up space. It had the look. It had leaves growing, but it had no figs. It had the appearance of a fruitful fig tree and from the exterior it should have been bountiful, bearing much fruit. From a distance, it appeared to be a healthy, fruit tree. Yet, in all actuality, it was a fig tree without figs. Therefore, Jesus became angry and cursed the tree.
“…..May no one ever eat fruit from you again…” (Mark 11:14 NIV)
Like the fig tree the religious leaders had failed to bear fruit, good fruit. They professed to be followers of God, but failed to have a true relationship with God. They missed the mark in fulfilling their purpose, which was to lead the children of Israel to God and be examples for Him. They were hypocrites who opposed everything Jesus did. They were evil and fought against that what which is good. And like the fig tree, Jesus would pronounce doom on the unproductive religious leaders (Matt. 23).
“The presence of a fruitful fig tree was considered to be a symbol of blessing and prosperity for the nation of Israel. Likewise, the absence or death of a fig tree would symbolize judgment and rejection.” – Got Questions?org…… [read more]
Are we like the fig tree, created to bear fruit, in a position to be fruitful, but we are unproductive? Are we like these religious leaders? Are we unproductive, refusing to fulfill and walk in our purpose? Do we have the appearance of a productive Christian, but it’s just a facade? Are we looking the part, playing the role, yet, inside we’re imposters? When Jesus looks at us, who does He see? Does He see His marvelous creation unfulfilling their purpose?
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Gal. 5:19-21, NIV)
The fig tree’s purpose was to bear fruit and to be nourishment for Jesus. Instead, it was inadequate and barren. Jesus was expecting to receive sustenance from the tree, but all he received was nothing.
My sister, do you have an intimate relationship with God? Are you walking in your purpose? As believers, are leading others to Christ? Can they see Jesus in us? Are we productive, bearing good fruit for our Savior?
Let us pray. Father, we have missed the mark. We’ve fallen short. We have taken your grace and mercy for granted. Forgive us. Show us how to get back on track. Lord, show us how to be true followers of Christ. Teach us how to be productive servants, serving in Your kingdom bearing the fruit of the Spirit. We seal this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge].” (Gal. 5:22-23, AMP)
Your Sis and Encourager, Rhovonda L. Brown Co-founder/Co-pastor of The Sanctuary Christian Fellowship Church Founder/Executive Director of Martha & Mary Ministries, Walking in Freedom! Founder/President of The Pillar of Hope
JOURNEY WITH CHRIST TO THE CROSS. SIGN UP TO RECEIVE A FREE EASTER DEVOTIONAL BY RHOVONDA BROWN
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