If we want more—more of God, more of His presence, more life—we must be willing to go where we’ve never been before. Change doesn’t happen by doing the same things and expecting different results. It requires us to be planted more deeply in Christ, to abide faithfully, and to let the Spirit grow fruit in us. This week, we’re looking at how we bear real fruit, not by striving, but by abiding.

The Purpose of Freedom: To Serve, Not To Indulge

Freedom is a gift from God, but it’s not meant to be used for self-indulgence. The freedom we find in the gospel is meant to be used in service to others. As Galatians 5:13 says, “Don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another.” True freedom is self-giving, not self-serving. When freedom is used for others, it becomes fulfilling and life-giving.

Why We Get Stuck: Tolerating Complacency

Many of us are spiritually stuck because we tolerate the same old patterns that lead to numbness. We show up, check the box, but wonder why nothing deep is changing. The issue isn’t just behavior; it’s heart transformation. Real change happens when the Holy Spirit moves us from the inside out. We must move beyond mere routines and allow the Spirit to transform our hearts.

Fruit vs. Production: Abiding, Not Striving

Here’s the key: we are called to bear fruit, not to produce it. Producing fruit is a performance, driven by striving. But bearing fruit comes from being rooted in the Vine—Jesus. Just like an apple tree doesn’t hustle to produce fruit, we don’t need to stress over “producing” spiritual results. We must focus on abiding in Christ, and the fruit will naturally follow.

Root Soil: Grace Over Grit

The soil in which we’re planted determines the fruit we bear. If we’re rooted in comparison, achievement, or approval, our fruit will be shallow. But when we are planted in grace, we grow authentic fruit—because grace reminds us that our value isn’t in performance, but in being loved by God. Grace allows us to grow in dependence, not fear.

Conflict Is Not Failure: It’s Growth

When we feel inner conflict, it doesn’t mean we’re failing. In fact, conflict can signal the Holy Spirit at work, reshaping us. True peace isn’t the absence of struggle; it’s trusting God through it. Conflict, when handled with the Spirit’s help, leads to growth and transformation.

What the Church Needs: Fruit, Not Skill

A non-denominational church in Cleveland doesn’t primarily need our talents—it needs our fruit. Talents are important, but the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, patience—is what makes service life-giving. It’s not about polished resumes; it’s about rooted hearts. We need people who are deeply connected to Christ, not just people who look good on paper.

Practical Steps to Grow Deeper Roots and Bear Fruit

  1. Recenter on Grace: Start each day remembering you are accepted in Christ. Let grace be your default.
  2. Prioritize Receiving Before Serving: Make time for weekly worship and spiritual rhythms.
  3. Practice Spiritual Discernment: Listen to the Spirit, asking if your actions lead to love, joy, and peace.
  4. Let Conflict Lead to Growth: Bring conflict to prayer, allowing the Spirit to shape you through it.
  5. Offer Fruit, Not Expertise: Serve from a place of love and humility, not just competence.
  6. Be Patient with the Process: Fruit comes in seasons. Trust God’s timing.

Join a Non-Denominational Church in Cleveland

We are not called to impress; we are called to be fruitful. Stop striving and start abiding. Let grace guide us and trust that when we are rooted in Christ, the fruit will come. This is how we truly become more, and it’s how the church becomes a place that draws others to Jesus. At Friends Church in Willoughby, Ohio, you’ll feel like one of the family. Discover more about our services, programs, and offerings by contacting us today!