Now in the morning, as He returned to the city, He was hungry. And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let no fruit grow on you ever again.” Immediately the fig tree withered away. (Matthew 21:18-19)
Jesus came hungry to the fig tree but found no fruit. He wasn’t impressed with the tree’s foliage, symmetry, or height. He didn’t check out its shade capacity or take a survey about its popularity with those who passed by. He just wanted fruit.
The fig tree was a hypocrite! It had leaves which meant it should have figs as well. It looked the part, but had no substance. The Lord cursed the tree and it withered from the root.
I don’t want Jesus to find me looking the part (saying right sounding words, wearing a christian t-shirt, knowing the right people, sitting on a church pew) but leave my presence without what He needed.
Reputation kills.
It lacks substance.
It keeps us living on the surface.
It trades fruit for influence.
It trades God’s esteem for man’s attention.
It is a curse, withered and barren.
Don’t despise the hidden seasons when no one notices you. Do not seek the attention of those who seem to matter. Just keep seeking the face of God. Relationship is far superior to reputation in His Kingdom.
Just keep going deep with God. Roots will produce fruit.
