When you think of fruitful living, what comes to mind?
Is it being productive?
Loving others well?
Honoring Christ in all that you do?
Sister, how amazing is it that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives inside each of us?! (Romans 8:11)
Through God and His strength, we can live more fruitfully than we could ever ask or imagine.
So how do you get started with fruitful living? For me, it begins by getting centered on three scriptures:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
For Philippians 4:13, we’re reminded that our results (our fruit!) comes from His strength and not our own. It takes the pressure off and allows us to operate at a higher level than we might ever feel capable of on our own, which is a beautiful thing!
2 Corinthians 12:9 shares a similar message. When we are weak, He is strong. We do not have to rely on our own power, but His. And even better, when we are feeling incapable, it’s likely a perfect opportunity for His power will take over and be on display. What a blessing!
Then John 15:5… a reminder to stay steadfast in Him. When we abide in Him, we see fruit. When we do not, we will not produce anything of true value.
Beautiful foundational scriptures, right?!
So, what comes to mind when you think of a fruitful life?
For me, the word abundance stands out. I’m reminded of all the areas in which God can produce fruit.
And interestingly enough… they fall into 7 F’s!
Faith
Family
Fellowship
Fun
Function (Career)
Finance
Fitness
A fruitful life may look like growth or abundance, in each of these areas.
Sounds amazing, right?
Let’s unpack how exactly you might make that happen, but through Him and His strength!
For a life of fruitful faith, I’d encourage you to consider- what are you craving more of? Do you need more worship, prayer, or scripture in your life? What might be the biggest blessing? Then, consider.. What might He be calling you to give others? What would you consider to be your spiritual gifts (perhaps leadership, hospitality, or encouragement), and how might you bless those around you with these giftings?
Then, for a fruitful family… you may want to consider what the Lord is calling you to cultivate. Is it to be more intentional in extending kindness or respect to your husband? Is it nurturing your relationship with your mom? Think about what might create wholeness, healing, or beauty in God’s eyes, and then do that thing! You may also want to consider humility here. What qualities is the Lord looking to grow in you? What is He prompting you to prune in your relationships? It’s not always easy to get honest with ourselves when it comes to relationships, but there is so much potential when we put our trust in Him.
For fruitful fellowship… let’s start by saying, isn’t community sweet? I’d encourage you to read the book of Acts as a starting point and see what speaks to you. Consider what Godly community you can give others. Then, consider what you need more of, too! Maybe you’re craving friends who are fellow believers? Or do you long for friendship with other women who are in the same season of life as you? Pray that the Lord will connect you with these people.
Fruitful fun… fun is so important yet something that also seems to find its way to the bottom of our to do lists all too often. Experiencing joy is a gift from God! So many of the women I coach are hustlers… they are always striving & achieving, and honestly fun oftentimes isn’t a priority. But for so many of these women (and maybe for you!), creating space to rest may be one of the most valuable things you do. Remember sister- pausing is productive! Also, challenge yourself to rest in Him on Sabbath. In fact, remembering the Sabbath day and keeping it Holy is one of the 10 Commandments. Pretty powerful, right?
Next up, is fruitful function! So when we think of ‘function’ we are referring to your career. And friend, I’m going to encourage you to get really honest with yourself and consider if you’re in the right fit job. Are you doing what He’s created you for? Are you taking the opportunity to share about the gospel right where you are? The amount of time you spend working is significant (about 90,000 hours, or ⅓ of your life!). Consider whether what you’re doing aligns with who He’s created you to be and serve. If you are running on mission, amazing! If that’s not the case, get curious about your passion or pain, and the purpose He has for you and others in that story.
Now we’re talking fruitful finance! Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also.” Money is a tricky thing, friends. Our relationship with money is important to God. In fact, I’ve read a statistic that outside of the kingdom of God, money is the topic most talked about in the Bible. Amazing, right? As believers, it’s important for us to remember that our money… isn’t ours. We are given resources to steward that are God’s. Two favorite resources are Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University as well as the book He Spends She Spends. These have both been revolutionary in my husband & my relationship with money. And, God & Money is another great read, too!
And last but not least is fruitful fitness! 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says that “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 is powerful as well, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Consider how you can glorify God with your body. Is it through exercise? Improved nutrition? Investing in counseling or coaching for a healthier mind? Consider what will glorify Him. What is it that you need to lean into (or let go of) to cultivate a healthier you?
There you have it, sister! Three scriptures to get grounded in Him and seven elements of a fruitful life, with ideas and powerful coaching questions to jump start you in each.
(Craving more? Check out our Goal Setting Series on the Fruitful Faith: Women on Mission podcast!)
As a next step, I’d invite you to determine how you’ll make each of these a reality. Will you include your action steps on your calendar? Will enlist a friend to provide encouragement and accountability?
And, consider how you will stay consistent (perhaps the hardest part!). Maybe it looks like exchanging limiting beliefs for God’s truths. Perhaps it’s identifying Christ centered affirmations to keep you moving forward. And, maintaining your spiritual disciplines (prayer, reading God’s word, worship, etc.) will always serve you well, too.
Cheering you on, sister! Cannot wait to hear about all the fruit and kingdom impact that’s soon to come.
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