The Fruit of the Spirit

Today is June 1, 2024. As the world celebrates one thing, we will focus our hearts and minds on another.

We will spend time this month delving into the Fruit of the Spirit as the Apostle Paul describes in his letter to the Galatians.

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

Let’s investigate the Fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23.

In these verses, the Apostle Paul outlines the characteristics that should naturally emerge in the life of a believer who is living in alignment with the Holy Spirit. These attributes are not just moral goals but are the evidence of a life transformed by God’s presence. The Fruit of the Spirit expresses these qualities:

1. Love: The selfless, sacrificial care for others, reflecting God’s own love for us.
2. Joy: A deep-seated sense of well-being and delight in God’s presence, regardless of circumstances.
3. Peace: An inner calm and trust in God’s sovereignty, even in tumultuous times.
4. Forbearance (Patience): The ability to endure difficult situations and people with a spirit of grace.
5. Kindness: A genuine concern and compassion for others, shown through acts of generosity and thoughtfulness.
6. Goodness: Moral integrity and a desire to do what is right in God’s eyes.
7. Faithfulness: Loyalty and steadfastness in our relationship with God and others.
8. Gentleness: A humble and mild disposition, showing sensitivity and respect.
9. Self-Control: The ability to govern one’s emotions, desires, and actions through the Spirit’s power.

These attributes are a testament to the continual work of the Holy Spirit within us, shaping us to be more like Christ. Meditate on that thought for a moment. We are “little Christs” being molded into becoming more Christlike by the Holy Spirit! How incredible is that!?! Thank You Holy Spirit!!!

The Fruit of the Spirit is not forced upon us. Neither is it contrived. The Fruit of the Spirit grows naturally as we deepen our relationship with God.

Which of these attributes stemming from the Fruit of the Spirit do you see most evident in your life right now, and which quality do you feel the Holy Spirit is prompting you to develop further? Be honest!

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Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who works within us to produce this beautiful fruit. Help us to cultivate a life open to Your guidance and transformation. Lead us, O Lord, in Your ways and we will strive to follow.

May we demonstrate love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in all that we think, say, and do for Your Glory. Fuel us with the power to reflect Your character in our daily lives, bringing Your Name all praise, honor, and glory. We pray these things in Jesus’ name by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen and Amen.

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Praying for us. We are all works in progress.

You are loved.

Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™