Bearing the Fruits of the Spirit

Week 5 – Day 7 – A Christ Like Life

Summary Devotional:

Every aspect of my life is improving. Even in physical decline with age there is a certain mellowness that has replaced that part of my life. They say that “wisdom comes with age” but not without cost.

But what it cost was not worth keeping anyway. I can only thank the Holy Spirit….the essence and character of Jesus that fills me on demand every time I call on Him.

I ask myself “what would Jesus do?” before moving to solve most problems. When I am about to say something critical I often ask if I would say that if Jesus was standing next to me; knowing full well that He is.

If we could all embrace the Fruits Of The Spirit we would be living in Heaven on Earth and one day we will live in an Earth made new.

There would be no need for war or violence. No courtrooms or law enforcement, no military and no prisons.

As Christians we grow in the knowledge of an eternity like this which is possible by loving and following Jesus. And as we await His soon return to take us to the Heavenly Country, we can live the best life possible on Earth in the hear and now in harmony even during times of trouble.

In Galatians 5:22-23, the apostle Paul outlines the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the character of God and are cultivated in the lives of believers through the work of the Holy Spirit. As we strive to live out our faith, let’s reflect on these fruits and their significance in our journey with Christ. Perhaps now we should start to memorise the Serenity Prayer.

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

The courage to change the things I can,

And wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time,

Enjoying one moment at a time,

Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace,

Taking, as Jesus did,

This sinful world as it is,

Not as I would have it,

Trusting that You will make all things right,

If I surrender to Your will,

So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,

And supremely happy with You forever in the next.

In Jesus Name…..Amen.”

1. Reflecting God’s Character: Consider how each fruit of the Spirit reflects a different aspect of God’s character. How does cultivating these virtues in our lives draw us closer to Him and reflect His nature to others?
2. Evidences of Spiritual Growth: Reflect on areas of your life where you have seen growth in the fruits of the Spirit. How have these qualities impacted your relationships, attitudes, and actions? In what ways can you continue to nurture and develop these fruits?
3. Practical Application: Think about practical ways you can actively bear the fruits of the Spirit in your daily life. How can you demonstrate love, joy, peace, and the other qualities in your interactions with others? What steps can you take to rely more fully on the Holy Spirit to produce these fruits in you?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Papa God, we thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, who works within us to produce the fruits of love, joy, peace, and so much more. Help us to be vessels of Your grace, bearing these fruits in abundance for Your glory. Grant us the wisdom and strength to walk in step with Your Spirit, allowing these qualities to shine forth in all that we do. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and goodness, drawing others into relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Graham Hood