The fruit of the Spirit reveals nine characteristics that describe the model Christian. Each fruit begins with love. These ingredients produce a happy, well-adjusted, spiritually mature person. It is the evidence of the Holy Spirit transforming your natural temperament into the image and personality of Christ.
The fruit of the Spirit is developed slowly over a period of time. Fruit begins with a seed that must be planted before there is a plant. The plant has to grow before there is fruit. For example, when you ask God for patience, you will be given opportunities to be patient… The duration of its growing time depends on your cooperation in giving the Holy Spirit access and management of your life. Is the fruit of the Spirit evident in your conduct?
Galatians 5:22, 23
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
The fruit of the Spirit cannot be imitated. It consists of what a person is, not what he does. The contrast between the fruit of the spirit and the works of the flesh is as great as light and darkness. The conflict comes when both the spirit and the flesh seek to control the mind, will, and emotions.
- Read Galatians 5:16-26. It exposes the two contrasting, opposing sources from which expressions of conduct flow.
- If you really want to know who is in control of your life, answer the following questions: Does your thinking, your decisions, and your emotional reactions reflect the carnal nature and lusts of the flesh, or Godly desires and the fruit of the Spirit? What are you modeling?
- Now, read Galatians 5:22,23 again. Inspect the fruit in your life? Jesus explained, “I am the Vine, you are the branches.” You cannot bear the fruit of the Spirit without being attached to the Vine.
Jesus said, “Even so, every good tree bringeth forth fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.” Matthew 7:17
