“A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” (Matthew 7:8)
Those who are walking with God in truth and sincerity give the best witness to those around them. What they say and do proceeds from who they are. They are good trees which manifest good fruit. They are a city set on a hill which cannot be hid.
We can be clever apologists, savvy soul-winners, or bold miracle workers, but what people really need to see in us is a life of devotion that mirrors the life of Jesus. It is not enough for parents to take their children to church; or have them pray before going to bed; what children need to behold are parents who genuinely live out the life they recommend. Even if children eventually go astray, they should be able to say: “Do you want to see a real Christian, you should meet my Dad (or Mom.)”
The multitudes were attracted to Jesus for a short time because of the miracles He performed. The disciples were converted because of the life He lived out before their eyes. They heard Him pray, and they wanted the same intimacy with the Father. “And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray…” (Luke 11:1)
Be a living epistle, seen and read of all men. Let them taste and see the good fruit of your life. Provoke them, in a good way, to love and good works. Communicate, above all, what it means to be a true worshipper of God.