It’s interesting what the Lord does with a preacher’s message. I don’t remember what Debbie’s dad’s point was, but it caused me to question how my ‘fruit’ was doing. So the next day I brought it up to the Lord in my journal and I believe He responded. In fact, He responded in three different areas that were on my mind, including a loved one I’ll call Madi. 

FYI: I’m including some possible scripture references the preacher may have used concerning fruit, but it’s speculation on my part because I don’t remember and didn’t include it in my journal.  John 15:1-8, Luke 6:43-45, Matt 12:33, Matt 7:15-20, Matt 21:19

From the journal . . . . August 1993

Debbie’s dad preached about ripe tomatoes that fall off the vine and rot. Very graphic.  I thought of myself and what I’m doing to produce good fruit for God’s kingdom.

I was halfway through college to get my teaching certificate and I was thinking of what I might be called to do.

Lord, I don’t know how this is all going to work, but I believe You want me to get my certificate. I know that.

And I Believe God Said:

Yes, your inclination is from Me.  No short cuts.  Get the teacher’s certificate.  I want you to understand the system.  You are sort of a spy.  Spy out the land.  I will be with you.  Don’t be afraid.  With Me you do have all power. Nothing can harm you.  Be wary as a serpent, yet as innocent as a dove.  I will give you opportunities for evangelism, but you don’t need to go after them. 

Psalm 91:9-11 If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter,
¹⁰ no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home.
¹¹ For He will order His angels to protect you wherever you go.
.Matthew 10:16 “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.
Colossians 4:5 Live wisely among those who are not believers and make the most of every opportunity.

Love your family, teach Sunday school, encourage the church,  help where you can but don’t neglect your home.  When at school, be alert for opportunities to share your faith, but you are there to get into the education system.  There will be opportunities, but I’ve called you to children.  College is not your destination.  It’s not your ministry.  Relax and be patient.  Trust Me to lead you.  If you abide in Me, you will bear fruit.  Abide in Me.

John 15:4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. NKJV

Thank You Lord.  Jesus, I believe that You do speak to me.  I receive this word from You because You are the one I’ve given my life to.  You are stronger than satan and will always be.  You will keep me from being deceived.  God, what about Madi?

If you trust Me your questions will be answered.  Don’t let doubts rob you.

Ps 94:18-19  I cried out, “I am slipping!”
    but Your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
¹⁹ When doubts filled my mind,
    Your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. NLT

Be patient in your ignorance. You don’t have to understand everything.  I know you; your mind, your heart, and your spirit.  Yield everything to Me and trust Me.  I am God.  I am your God.

Isaiah 41:13 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand, Who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.’

Lord.  I love You.  Jesus, take my mind, spirit, heart, soul, and body.  Please take it and use it.  Show me how to be more yielded to You.

All you need to do is follow Me.  Keep Me always before you.  My word is true.  Remember My words.  Remember what we’ve done together.

1 Chron 16:11-12 Search for the Lord and for His strength;
    continually seek Him.
¹² Remember the wonders He has performed,
    His miracles, and the rulings He has given,

Keep doing things because you care but keep your priorities straight.