Fruit of Life

Galatians 5:22-23

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

For far too long, most of us bore bad “fruit of the flesh” always leading to death described in Galatians 5:19-21, which immediately precedes today’s passage.

The Holy Spirit in us brings about the good “fruit of the Spirit” that always leads to life (see also April 30 about staying connected to the Vine). Jesus desires that we all bear fruit and that the fruit would last (see John 15:16).

How can we participate in the Holy Spirit’s work of bringing forth all this great fruit in our lives?

These character qualities of Christ enumerated in today’s passage come forth in us in greater abundance as we learn to more fully surrender to the Lordship of Christ Jesus, and completely submit to the Leadership of the Holy Spirit.

My experience is that the more I seek and love God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength; the more I desire to be obedient to Him. Blessings follow obedience. To me, the peace, joy, love and other fruit of the Spirit being manifested in my life are such good blessings that I want more!

There is absolutely no comparison between the previous fruit of darkness and the flesh we used to have; and the light and spiritual blessings we have now in the fruit of life in the Spirit.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Ask the Father to show you how to allow Him to bring forth more spiritual fruit in your life. Which character qualities listed above are already evident? Which ones need to grow?

Dive Deeper: Study Galatians 5; Colossians 3:12-14; John 15:16.