I’m a novice when it comes to computers, but you don’t need to understand very much about computers to know that output is based on input. Jesus said the same is true in the computer of our minds.
In Matthew
Some think Jesus was rather severe when He says in verse 36, “men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” Every careless word?? Yes. Because what we say, even carelessly, is a reflection of what is in our heart.
I would identify the statement, “a tree is recognized by its fruit,” as an impact statement. That is a statement that states a truth so simply and poignantly that you will remember and understand it without difficulty. It will jump out at you and grab your attention.
You need to remember, however, that it’s always important to check the context to make sure the context supports what you understand the statement to be saying. Once you’ve confirmed that your understanding is valid, then apply the truth to your life.
This impact statement can be put into an impact thought, “Input determines output.”