Is your fruit growing to perfection? You could be doing many things in the name of God, but are you growing into Christ-like perfection, or your earthly "standards" of self-improvement and esteem? 

Godly culture matters. Sin corrupted original culture of waiting in God for all things. Whatever we do will never achieve perfection anymore. Only through Christ can we fulfil the perfection God desires of man.

Bringing your fruit to perfection involves overcoming three challenges.

Jesus reveals three ways. 

1. Overcome the cares of this world
2. Do not get comfortable spiritually with material, or financial riches
3. Find pleasures in a heavenly lifestyle, not in the things of this life

And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. Luke 8:13-15

Cares of this world

What is driving the world into mental and emotional despair? What causes anxieties and fears in the minds and hearts of people? Their expectations are only for this life. Meditating on the Word of God day and night is necessary to arrest worrying thoughts and rest in God's promises (Psalms 1:1-3).

Earthly riches

They love the world (worldliness) and the things of this world. Their jobs and careers, carnal family relations and friendships, and the need to be approved by men have left them spiritually vacant and empty. While you are blessed outwardly, there is no godly spiritual fruit. Seeking the kingdom of God helps us focused on heavenly riches as God blesses us on earth according to His good pleasure (Matthew 6:33).

Pleasures of this life

What pleases you more? The joy in the Lord or joy in earthly success. Entertainment of this world or worshipping God by following Jesus. In His presence there is pleasures forever (Psalms 16:11). God desires we enjoy the pleasures of His presence that is forever rather than temporary joys that dilute our walk with Him.

Examine your life today and overcome these three challenges that are stopping you from bearing fruit to perfection. Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.