Building a Fruit Bearing Life – Second Trait of a Proverbs Life

“I got nothin.” My youngest son made this motto for a couple of years. Every time we called his name he responded with the defense – and it was a sure indicator that he either did have something he should not have had or else had been up to something he needed to avoid.

I find myself falling into that same motto at times. I know what I need to be doing, but I got NOTHIN. I fall so far behind that I forget I am even in the race. I end up just strolling along wondering what it was I was supposed to be doing. Developing a life that has something to show for it requires that I make changes and different decisions.

A life of meaning and purpose – one that bears fruit – comes from a heart that has determined to get things done and then follows through with the actions required to make it happen. Growing a productive life requires just as much time and effort as it takes to grow a garden that produces fruit.

What it Takes to Grow a Fruitful Life

• Action – without action nothing will ever be accomplished in my life. At some point I have to quit talking and start walking.

• Attitude – the right thoughts will help prepare the way for those actions that I need to reach my destination. I have to pour in the right stuff to create the right attitude (that means being aware of what I watch, listen to and read).

• Agenda – I have to know where I am going and what steps I need to take to make it a reality.

• Assuage – there world spins chaos around me at all times. I have to find a place and a way to make it all still and quiet.

The Proverbs life bears fruit – not just for me but for those that I encounter. The right habits, behaviors and attitudes allow me to be a blessing to others. It may require some heavy lifting, but the investment will make the harvest that much better.

Do you want to learn more about developing a Proverbs life? Kathryn Lang writes and speaks on topics that focus on the good, positive and uplifting and on subjects that seek to provide inspiration and motivation for the hearts and lives of others. She offers you 8 traits from Proverbs and practical tips to make those traits a part of your life. “Practical Proverbs” will be available later this summer.