September 19, 2024
Did you hear about the tomato seed that wanted to be a watermelon? He was not content with being a smaller fruit and set his sights on something more significant. He read all the magazines and books he could find about watermelons. He studied the different varieties and the best environmental factors for harvesting watermelons and even researched how watermelons can be consumed and enjoyed.
He only thought positive watermelon thoughts and waited for the day he would grow into a healthy, heavy melon. The big day came early one morning, and he felt the sun’s warmth on his skin. He opened his eyes and guess what happened. He was a tomato! Despite his best efforts, he could not change who or what he was.
This parable, though seemingly lighthearted, holds a mirror to our desires and intentions. As Christians, we constantly battle between two opposing forces — the flesh and the spirit. We may strive to be “watermelons” through our good works and thoughts, but we often behave like “tomatoes” when we choose to sin and yield to temptations. The relevance of this “watermelon warfare” to our lives cannot be overstated. How can we emerge victorious? Let’s explore further.
In his letter to the Galatians, Paul clarifies that the company they keep influences who they are. We have a choice each day about who and what we will listen to, believe and follow. It is crucial that we daily and intentionally set our desires and minds on Jesus. But we are not left to navigate this journey alone. Being led by the Holy Spirit and following through with obedience is the hallmark of an authentic disciple of Christ.
Our only avenue to live a godly and faithful Christian life is to be led by the Spirit. You cannot do it on your own, but with the Comforter’s intervention, victory is within reach.
When someone chooses to walk in the flesh, they are capable of any sin imaginable. The teachings of Christ reveal to us not only the outward deeds that condemn us but also our sinful thoughts.
As you read the list in these verses, you will find transgressions that you are guilty of. Being a Christian does not make you perfect, but it will make you aware of your sins, hopefully leading to a greater desire not to pursue the flesh but to seek holiness.
I am thankful for the word “but!” Without it, none of us would have the opportunity to know Christ and the salvation He provides. The intervening grace of God is a powerful force that makes it possible for anyone to turn from their flesh and live in the Spirit.
Paul instructs the reader on what a Christian will practice and produce with the fruit of the Spirit.
This spiritual fruit is more significant than a tomato and sweeter than a watermelon! Take note of the fruit listed and see where you are lacking. Salt enhances the great taste of watermelon, but the Spirit can equip you to win battles and live in victory. With the Spirit’s transformative power, we can all strive for a life that bears the fruit of the Spirit.
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This lesson was written by Bobby McKay, pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Miss., and originally published by The Baptist Paper. This study is based on the Bible Studies for Life curriculum from Lifeway Christian Resources.
