But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. –Galatians 5:22-23
Summer is one of my favorite times of year. Not simply for the longer days and warmer weather, but also for summer fruit. I love going into the grocery store, seeing the produce aisle stocked with a smorgasbord of delicious, brightly colored fruit and bringing some home for my family to enjoy.
The book of Galatians talks about spiritual fruit. These “fruits,” love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are characteristics we hope for in ourselves but also look to receive from others. Similar to summer fruit in the produce aisle — these spiritual fruit are appealing and refreshing both when others encounter them in our lives and when we encounter them in others’ lives.
For Christians, the fruit of the Spirit comes in a complete set. When you believe and the Holy Spirit is working in you, others should see this fruit daily growing in you. Not just one piece, but all. It’s not like going shopping and picking out only two kinds of fruit; we get the party pack — all nine fruits of the Spirit. These are natural characteristics of Jesus that he gives to us through the Holy Spirit. They are fruit we should seek to grow.
A part of being a Christian means growing each attribute. We all have opportunities each day to demonstrate and put these fruits to practice. Each day, we can choose to display these spiritual fruit to others around us. The more we do that, the more those around us will see Jesus apparent in our life.
GOING DEEPER:
1. What fruit of the Spirit do you find lacking in your life right now? Pray and ask the Lord to increase that area in your life.
2. Think through a typical day. How do these qualities help you to demonstrate Jesus in your day-to-day life?
FURTHER READING:
John 15:4-5; Ephesians 5:8-9; 1 John 4:7-8