[Trae Johnson]

Matthew 3 really struck a chord with me because I myself have wrestled with periods of self-righteousness, periods when I felt like I was “doing enough” to please God by my own efforts. As the Pharisees and Sadducees, I have sometimes comforted myself by measuring myself against others instead of checking myself within. But God has a way of humbling us and reminding us that fruit that is good does not come from the work of humans, but from a heart that repents and trusts completely in Him.

I have found that when I stop trying to control and really let go in surrender to Christ, then true transformation is possible. Fruit in my life, patience, humility, and compassion, only emerge when I am planted in God and not pride or habit. This verse reminds me daily that true faith is not being seen as righteous; it is God working from the inside out to shape me.