“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)
Last year my Bible study sister gifted me with a towel that lists the 9 fruits of the spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. Although it is a kitchen towel, I placed it on my night stand so that I could look at it before I go to sleep and when I wake up to begin my day. I wanted to intentionally do a self check to make sure that I was actively abiding and living by these fruits. Like so many of you who read the Bible, I have read this text many times but can admit that some of the fruits are more challenging than others. The one that use to challenge me the most was patience. However, the Holy Spirit has helped me with my desire to overcome this challenge. I can happily testify to the joy it brings my heart when I exercise patience towards others. It’s a joy because I realize that any decision made with the intent to improve is basically a decision to love.
If we learn to apply this part of scripture to our daily lives and challenge ourselves to ask what kind of fruit we desire to possess and deposit, as well as challenge ourselves to become a representative and reflection of the fruits of the spirit, we can begin achieving our highest good within and towards others. Take a moment to imagine what good could occur if we bless others with the same patience and kindness we expect to receive. Imagine the difference made when gentleness leads instead of abruptness in our actions and words. We can reach more people when joy flows out of our heart compared to any negativity. The Lord is faithful and if we allow the faithfulness we claim to have in Him lead us instead of the faith we tend to place in others, people will see what self control actually looks like whenever challenges or attacks come our way.
The fruits of the spirit may be challenging at times but if you truly want to overcome less than kind responses or actions towards others, then applying and abiding by the fruits of the spirit must become a necessary application in your daily walk of life. To live in love and joy as a believer is a gift to self, as well as a gift to others. This intentional act is completely attainable when you awaken to the importance of living by Galatians 5:22-23. God’s spirit lives in you which means you can give and experience love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control like never before. However, you must make the decision to be intentional in doing so!
Until the Next Blog,
Blessings & Love!