The Fruit of Our Choices
A Lesson from the Apple Tree
Have you ever stopped to think about the significance of an apple? It’s more than just a juicy snack or a symbol of wisdom. An apple from a tree can become either a refreshing drink or a sour concoction, depending on how it’s nurtured.
The Sour Taste of Disobedience
The Bible reminds us that “sluggards are to those who send them as vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes” (Proverbs 10:26). Vinegar, which means “sour wine” in French, was a common beverage in ancient times, made from wine or strong drink that had turned sour. Interestingly, Jesus was offered sour wine as his last drink, but he refused it. Perhaps it represented all that had gone wrong in the world, where good people had allowed their lives to turn sour.
From Sweet to Sour
We start life like a ripe apple on the tree, full of potential and sweetness. But as we grow, we face choices that can either nurture that sweetness or allow it to turn sour. When we choose to follow our own desires and ignore God’s guidance, we risk falling into bitterness and disillusionment. This grieves God, who created us to worship and follow him.
A World Gone Sour
Look around us today. Much of the world has fallen into sourness, rejecting God’s love and guidance. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We have the power to choose. We can decide to remain loyal to God, to follow his path, and to cultivate a life of sweetness and joy.
What Kind of Apple Are You?
So, what kind of apple are you? Are you a sweet, refreshing presence in the world, or have you allowed your life to turn sour? The choice is yours. Remember, God created us for fellowship with him, and he longs for us to return to him with all our hearts.
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