Fruits of the Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
There are nine ‘fruits’ mentioned in Galatians. The word fruit is used to help us understand the result of the holy spirit. Just like any apple or peach, fruits of the spirit take time to ripen. It needs proper water and sunshine to thrive. Taking time to read scripture or tending to the weeds created by past sin can make for a strong and tall tree.
Love,Goodness,Kindness & Patience
Love in a biblical sense is chosen, and it always seeks to benefit others. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility value others above yourself.”(Philippians 2:1-3). In my opinion, biblical love and the fruits of kindness and goodness go hand in hand. Goodness represents a sense of what is morally right and kindness is the expression of that goodness unto others. Mastering goodness and kindness is key for learning biblical love for our brothers and sisters. Patience is equally as important. Usually patience is linked with speaking the gospel to others. We’re called to be patient with each other as God patiently waits for the broken.
Joy,Peace & Gentleness
I hear about peace a lot in devotions and church sermons, but before I was involved in a church I was always so angry. That's because the world can’t offer us peace. Sure our favorite things make life easier but true peace through the Lord is unlike any stress relief tactic out there. The book of Phillipians tells us to rejoice, bring all our worries and fears, and then fill ourselves with the truth. On the other hand, joy seems to be more of an overlooked subject. Joy to me is an extreme happiness and sense of security. John 15:4-11 says “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” I heard somewhere that gentleness is the grace of our souls, it’s the opposite of selfishness and self interest, making it vital for peace within christ. “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2)
Self control & Faithfulness
Through Self control, we’re allowed the option to say no to the things we know are sinful and wrong. We’re also given the option to make the correct decisions; and choose to say yes to God. Our faithfulness to God is a constant choice to obey him. Choosing to do what seems harder or more difficult because we have faith that he knows what’s best. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Best wishes,
Emily